Prostate cancer develops when normal, healthy cells in the prostate begin to grow and function differently. These cancerous cells can begin to build up and form a mass called a tumor, which exists as a lump inside the body and can spread.

Early-stage prostate cancer may not show symptoms, and some men may not realize there’s an issue, possibly for years. 

Some symptoms of prostate cancer can include:

• Difficulty emptying the bladder
• Erectile dysfunction
• Frequent urination, particularly at night
• Pain or burning during urination
• Stiffness or pain when sitting (caused by an enlarged prostate)
• Weak flow of urine

Other prostate conditions, like an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia, can cause similar symptoms. If you’re having any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor or urologist to figure out what’s causing them.

The causes of prostate cancer can vary. While there are some risk factors that are out of your control, others are linked to lifestyle — which means you can lower your risk:

• Age: As you age, your likelihood of developing prostate cancer increases. Most prostate cancer diagnoses occur after age 65.
• Family history: If your father or brother has had prostate cancer, you have double the risk.
• Race: Being African American means you have a greater chance of developing prostate cancer, particularly earlier in life, than if you’re white. 
• Other risk factors: Other factors that can increase your risk of developing prostate cancer include smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, poor diet, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.

Early detection is the key to identifying cancer when it’s more easily treated and curable. Some of the diagnostic tests your doctor may perform include:

• Digital rectal examination: Your doctor may conduct a physical exam by inserting a gloved finger into your rectum to search for abnormalities in the prostate and other health concerns. 
• Prostate-specific antigen test (PSA test): This blood test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in your blood. Elevated levels can be an early sign of prostate cancer.
• Imaging tests: MRIs, CT scans and PET scans produce detailed pictures of the inside of your prostate. These types of diagnostic tests can discover possible tumors, detect if a tumor has spread and evaluate whether treatment is working. 
• Genetic tumor testing: Genetics play a role in certain types of cancers, including prostate cancer. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, your doctor may recommend genetic testing to look for signs of increased risk. Geisinger has one of the largest teams of genetic counselors in the country who help you understand your risks and options for prevention and treatment. 
• Biopsy: Geisinger is one of the few centers in Pennsylvania to offer a newer technology called an MRI fusion biopsy. This technology is the most advanced and accurate method to detect prostate cancer. First, you'll have a traditional MRI, which our radiology team will review. Then your doctor will perform the MRI fusion biopsy in one of our surgical suites.