If found early with a blood test and exam, cancer in the prostate gland is treatable for men before it spreads to other body parts or causes bladder blockage. Highly specialized medical oncologists at Avera Cancer Institute treat prostate cancer and other genitourinary cancers affecting your urethra, bladder and kidney (renal cell).
From diagnosis through post-treatment follow-up care, you have us right by your side. Your care team of specialty and support services work together to create a treatment plan specific to you, including:
- Chaplain
- Dietitian
- Music therapist
- Patient advocates
- Radiation oncologist
- Social worker
- Specialized oncologist
What Is Prostate Cancer?
This type of cancer starts in the cells of the prostate, a male gland about the size and shape of a walnut located in the upper urethra. Aside from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men.
With age, the prostate gland grows, potentially leading to bladder blockage. Learn about our urology services.
Risk Factors
Besides your family medical history, the likelihood of a prostate diagnosis can rise due to other outside forces. These known risk factors include:
- Older age
- Currently smoking, using tobacco or vaping
- Being a former heavy smoker, tobacco user or vaper
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Poor diet
- Obesity
A genetic counselor can work with you to provide guidance on your personal risk factors.
Manage My Risk Request Genetic Counseling
Signs & Symptoms
Noteworthy signs and symptoms of a prostate tumor may display as:
- Pain or stiffness in lower back, hips and pelvis
- Trouble starting to urinate or emptying bladder
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- A weak or interrupted urine flow
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood or semen in urine
Screening for Prostate Cancer
For men, a prostate cancer screening happens at your annual physical exam beginning at age 55. Your doctor may recommend a different screening schedule for you depending on your family and health history. The types of prostate tests include:
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Digital rectal exam (DRE)
Book an appointment at an Avera clinic near you or contact your doctor.
Treatments at Avera Cancer Institute
With early detection and expert oncology treatment, there’s hope. After a prostate cancer diagnosis is determined, there are a variety of treatments based on your specific diagnosis. Turn to Avera Cancer Institute, where our board-certified oncologists have the specialty training needed to provide personalized cancer care.
