Aggressive prostate cancer: Causes, symptoms, risk factors and prevention tips

The recent announcement that former US President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer highlights one of the most common but often silent cancers in men. While early-stage prostate cancer can go undetected for years, more advanced forms tend to be faster-growing and more serious.

• Aggressive prostate cancer

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI) aggressive or advanced prostate cancer refers to cancer that has spread beyond the prostate gland, which sits just below the bladder and plays a key role in producing semen. In its advanced form, the disease may extend into nearby tissues, lymph nodes, or even bones. Unlike early-stage cancer, which is usually slow-growing and symptom-free, advanced prostate cancer is more aggressive and may require intensive treatment. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may have already affected a man’s quality of life and overall health.

Also read | Prostate cancer in men: Early detection through symptoms, diagnosis

• Symptoms and causes of aggressive prostate cancer

While early prostate cancer is often asymptomatic, the advanced form presents a variety of troubling signs. Advanced prostate cancer often brings symptoms like back or pelvic pain, trouble urinating, blood in urine or semen, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and weight loss.

If it spreads to the spine, it may cause numbness or loss of bladder control. While causes aren't fully known, hormones, genetic mutations (like BRCA1/2), and lifestyle factors such as poor diet and smoking may contribute.

Also read | Decoding prostate cancer: Symptoms, causes, and prevention 

• Risk factors:

Several factors increase the risk of advanced prostate cancer. Age is key, with most cases diagnosed after 50. A family history, especially in close male relatives, raises the risk. African-Caribbean men and those with inherited gene mutations face higher odds. Smoking, obesity, and high calcium intake may also contribute.

• Tips for prevention

Even though it’s not always possible to prevent prostate cancer, there are ways to lower your risk. Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables and whole grains is a good start. Regular exercise can help manage weight and hormone levels, both of which play roles in cancer development.

Reducing dairy and calcium supplements, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol are also considered beneficial. Most importantly, men over 50, or younger if they have risk factors, should have routine check-ups and discuss PSA (Prostate-specific antigen) testing with their GP.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.