Prostate Cancer Specialist

What is the prostate?

The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system that makes seminal fluid, which combines with sperm cells to create semen. The prostate gland surrounds your urethra in front of the rectum, below your bladder.  

In healthy young men, the prostate is close in size to an apricot. After you turn 40, the prostate gland begins to change and grow larger. Having an enlarged prostate, however, doesn’t mean you have cancer.

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is one of the most common male cancers in the United States. In its earliest stages, prostate cancer may not present any symptoms. As the disease progresses, however, you may experience:

• Problems urinating
• Weakened urine streams
• Erectile dysfunction
• Blood in your semen
• Discomfort in the pelvis
• Bone pain

Prostate cancer risks are higher in men over 50 and continue to increase with age. More than 80% of prostate cancer cases occur in men 65 and older. Your risk of developing prostate cancer grows if you have a family history of the disease or are of African descent. It’s also more common for black men with prostate cancer to have more aggressive tumors at an earlier age.

How is prostate cancer diagnosed?

The Advanced Urology of South Florida team relies on the most innovative and advanced diagnostic tools available to reach a prostate cancer diagnosis. The first step involves preliminary screening tools, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood testing and digital rectal exams.

Prostate-specific antigen blood tests

PSA screenings check your blood for high levels of PSA, a protein made in your prostate. This test can indicate a risk of prostate cancer in the future, detect whether the disease is present, and monitor your condition throughout your treatment.

Digital rectal exams (DRE)

During a DRE, your doctor inserts a finger into your rectum to examine your prostate for lumps, soft or hard spots, or other irregularities.

Based on your preliminary screenings, your doctor might recommend additional prostate screenings like a biopsy or ultrasound.

How is prostate cancer treated?

The experienced providers at Advanced Urology of South Florida provide treatment recommendations based on your prostate cancer diagnosis and the stage of your cancer. Treatment may include:

• Monitoring your condition
• Hormone therapy
• Radiation or chemotherapy
• Surgery or cryosurgery

The doctors at Advanced Urology of South Florida work with you to develop an individualized treatment strategy that addresses your unique needs.

If you suspect prostate cancer or have a family history of the disease, call Advanced Urology of South Florida or schedule an appointment online.