Prostate cancer affects hundreds of men every year – but how much do YOU know about it?
Prostate cancer is one of the most prolific cancers in men, affecting one in eight men in the UK at some point during their life, according to Prostate Cancer UK.
Men aged over 50 or those who have a history of prostate cancer in their family are most at risk – and it’s estimated that over 11,000 men will die in the UK from prostate cancer every single year.
Some men feel a stigma about going to the doctors, feeling that they must uphold a “macho” image and so don’t get things checked out as soon as they could have.
Symptoms of prostate cancer might not appear until the cancer has grown so big that it is putting pressure on the urethra, but there are signs and symptoms that you can look out for to help your other half.
We’ve worked with Dr. Jan Schaefer, Chief Medical Officer at MEDIGO, to find out the signs and symptoms your partner might not pick up on… But you might.
Signs and symptoms
1) Frequent urination and increased urgency
Frequent urination can be an indication of prostate cancer. You might notice that your partner gets up more frequently in the night, or simply goes to the toilet more often than usual.
You may also notice that your partner’s urgency for the bathroom increases – they might need the bathroom as soon as they feel the need to urinate, and they might also take a longer time in the bathroom than usual.
2) Tiredness and fatigue
Another early sign for many cancers (including prostate) can be a continuous feeling of tiredness. You might notice that your partner’s fatigue doesn’t lighten, no matter how much they rest, and that they struggle going about their day-to-day activities.
3) Impotence
Difficulty in getting or sustaining an erection can also be a sign of prostate cancer. This is a sensitive issue, but if it perseveres make sure to speak to your partner and urge them to visit the GP to assess the situation.
4) Back pain
A small number of men might experience pains in their back, hips and legs, which could be a sign of prostate cancer. This is rare and only happens if prostate cancer has spread to the bone. However, if your partner complains of persistent pains, it is always worth taking a trip to your GP.
Via our sister site Closer.
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