Recognising the Early Signs of Prostate Cancer: Symptoms Every Man Should Know About– Raising Awareness to Help Tackle This Common Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, with 1 in 8 men being diagnosed in their lifetime. During Prostate Cancer Awareness, it is crucial to raise awareness about the symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of early diagnosis. At Wandsworth Medical Centre, we’re committed to helping men understand the signs and take early action to protect their health.

Prostate cancer often develops slowly and may not show symptoms in the early stages. However, recognising the warning signs can be life-saving. Symptoms may include:

• Increased need to urinate, especially at night
• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• Weak flow or straining
• Feeling that the bladder hasn’t fully emptied
• Blood in urine or semen

These signs are not always caused by prostate cancer but should never be ignored. Men experiencing these symptoms are encouraged to consult their GP for further investigation. The earlier a diagnosis is made, the better the chances of successful treatment and management.

Raising awareness is not just about sharing facts – it’s about shifting the cultural stigma around men’s health. Encouraging open discussions and normalising prostate cancer checks can make a significant impact, especially among high-risk groups.

Men with a family history of prostate cancer or those of African-Caribbean heritage face a higher risk, with around 1 in 4 men affected in these communities. By understanding your personal risk and acting early, you can greatly improve outcomes. Use Prostate Cancer UK’s online risk checker to assess your individual risk and seek medical advice promptly.

Prevention and Treatment: How to Manage Prostate Cancer Risk – A Guide to Support, Information, and Community Awareness

Although there’s no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, being proactive about your health can help reduce your risk. At Wandsworth Medical Centre, we promote a healthy lifestyle, regular check-ups, and open conversations about men’s health as the foundation for prevention.

Risk factors for prostate cancer include:

• Age (risk increases after 50)
• Family history of prostate cancer
• Ethnicity (higher risk in Black men)
• Obesity and poor diet

By maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and reducing alcohol consumption, men can support their overall wellbeing. Regular health screenings and using Prostate Cancer UK’s risk checker can also help in early detection and treatment.

When prostate cancer is diagnosed, the stage and grade of the cancer determine the treatment options. In some cases, active surveillance may be recommended if the cancer is low-risk and not causing symptoms. Other treatments include:

• Radiotherapy
• Hormone Therapy
• Surgery
• Chemotherapy

Our healthcare professionals at Wandsworth Medical Centre provide personalised care and advice tailored to each patient’s needs. We understand that living with prostate cancer presents physical and emotional challenges. That’s why we emphasise support, information, and community-based care.

We work closely with specialists and support networks to ensure every patient receives the right care at every stage – whether it’s during diagnosis, treatment, or survivorship. For those already living with prostate cancer, our team offers compassionate advice, regular health checks, and referrals to local support groups and clinical services.

Raising awareness about treatment options and encouraging men to check their risk can lead to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes. The impact of proactive health management cannot be overstated. It’s not just about prolonging life – it’s about living well.