The prostate is an integral part of the male reproductive system and is a small gland below the bladder and surrounding the urethra. Prostate cancer is caused by changes in the DNA of prostate cells. The condition typically occurs in older men, with about 6 in 10 people affected by it being 65 years or older. It is rare among men under 40. Here are some warning signs of prostate cancer that shouldn’t be ignored:

Frequent urge to urinate
Prostate cancer typically grows along the nerves in the groin area. As a result, people with the condition feel the urge to pass urine frequently, particularly at night.

Urine hesitancy
Hesitancy, or difficulties with urination, is another common symptom of prostate cancer, although it is prevalent among older adults. Urine hesitancy should not be ignored in any case, and one must undergo tests to rule out the possibility of cancer.

Unsteady urine stream
Many with prostate cancer may experience an unsteady urine stream or reduced force while urinating. Such changes in urination patterns should be tested immediately.

Blood in urine or semen
Blood in the urine (hematuria) or semen (hematospermia) can indicate the development of prostate cancer, though these are less common symptoms. Blood in the semen is typically light pink or bright red in color.

Sudden erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction can develop due to old age, but it can be a gradual effect. However, among men with prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction is usually sudden and can be an early sign of the condition.

Incontinence
The tumor in the prostate can lead to urinary incontinence. In some cases, if cancer spreads to other body organs, it can lead to spinal cord compression and subsequent loss of bladder control.

Back or hip pain
Metastasis, which refers to the spread of cancer cells from their place of origin, can lead to pain in areas like the back and hip. Such pain, accompanied by other symptoms of prostate cancer, can be an early sign of the disease and should not be ignored.

Pain in the pelvis
Prostate cancer attacks the soft tissues situated in the pelvic region, which results in long-term pelvic pain.

Incomplete urination
Urinary retention is a common symptom of prostate cancer. One may typically feel that their bladder has not been emptied after urination. This symptom develops due to blockage of the ureters or tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder. Retention of urine in the bladder causes severe pain and discomfort and may lead to kidney damage or infection over time.

Fractures
Although this symptom is not directly related to prostate cancer, fractures can occur when cancer has spread from the prostate to the bones. Such fractures can develop even with light movements.