Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men and one of the leading causes of cancer-related illness worldwide. 
In the United Kingdom, there are around 55,300 new prostate cancer cases each year (2017–2019), making it the most common cancer in men, accounting for 28% of all new male cancer cases and causing about 12,200 deaths annually. 
In the United Arab Emirates, prostate cancer ranks fourth among male cancers, with 310 new cases and 62 deaths reported in 2022. Although the incidence rate (around 35 per 100,000 population) is lower than in Western countries, it is steadily rising, underscoring the importance of early screening and awareness. 

While the word “cancer” can sound alarming, early detection and modern medical advances mean that most men diagnosed today have excellent treatment outcomes. 
Understanding the prostate, how cancer develops, and which symptoms to watch for is the first step toward protecting your health. 

This guide breaks down what prostate cancer is, what increases the risk, how it’s detected, and the treatment options available today. Whether you’re learning for yourself or supporting a loved one, this is a clear and practical overview without medical jargon. 

What Is Prostate Cancer? 

The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland found only in men. It sits just below the bladder and plays an important role in producing seminal fluid. 

Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in this gland. Some prostate cancers grow slowly and may not cause symptoms for years, while others can be more aggressive. 

Early diagnosis is key, especially because the disease is highly treatable when found at the right time. 
At Reem Hospital, our urologists and family medicine doctors recommend routine screening starting around age 45, or earlier if you have risk factors such as a family history of prostate cancer or African/Caribbean ancestry. 

According to international guidelines: 

  • American (AUA) guidelines recommend starting at 45 years.
  •  European (EAU) guidelines suggest baseline PSA testing from 40 years, and organized screening from 50 years. 
    Thus, a balanced recommendation is to begin discussions and baseline checks around age 45. 

Common Symptoms of Prostate Cancer 

In many cases, prostate cancer does not cause symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do appear, they are often related to urination or changes in the surrounding pelvic area. 

Symptom Description 
Difficulty urinating Trouble starting or maintaining urine flow 
Frequent urination Especially at night (nocturia) 
Weak urine stream Noticeable reduction in flow 
Pain or burning while urinating Less common but possible 
Blood in urine or semen A warning sign that needs immediate evaluation 
Pelvic or lower back pain Usually in later stages 
Erectile dysfunction Can develop due to nerve involvement 

Important note: These symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions such as benign prostate enlargement (BPH) or infections. Only a proper medical evaluation can confirm the cause. 
If you notice any persistent symptoms, a consultation with a urologist at Reem Hospital is recommended. 

Causes and Risk Factors of Prostate Cancer 

The exact causes are not fully understood, but several factors increase the risk: 

  1. Age – Risk rises sharply after 50, with most cases in men over 65. 
  2. Family History – Having a father or brother with prostate cancer doubles your risk. Genetic mutations like BRCA1/2 also contribute. 
  3. Ethnicity – Men of African or Caribbean descent face a higher risk at younger ages. 
  4. Diet and Lifestyle – High-fat diets, low fruit and vegetable intake, obesity, and inactivity increase risk. 
  5. Hormonal Factors – Elevated testosterone levels may stimulate abnormal prostate cell growth.  

How Prostate Cancer Is Diagnosed 

Diagnosis involves several steps: 

  1. PSA Blood Test – Measures prostate-specific antigen levels; elevated PSA can indicate enlargement, inflammation, or cancer. 
  2. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) – Physical examination to feel for prostate abnormalities. 
  3. MRI Scan – Provides detailed imaging of suspicious areas. 
  4. Prostate Biopsy – Confirms cancer by analyzing tissue samples. 
  5. Additional Imaging – CT, bone, or PET scans may be used for staging. 

At Reem Hospital, prostate cancer screening is integrated into comprehensive men’s health checkups, ensuring comfort, privacy, and early detection. 

Did You Know? Men with a first-degree relative (father or brother) diagnosed with prostate cancer have 2–3 times higher risk. 

Modern Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer 

Once diagnosed, treatment depends on cancer stage, aggressiveness, and overall health. 
Advances in medicine now allow for personalized approaches with better recovery and minimal side effects. 

1. Active Surveillance (for low-risk cases) 

Used for slow-growing cancers with close monitoring. 

  • Ideal for low-risk tumors 
  • Avoids unnecessary surgery or radiation 
  • Preserves quality of life 

2. Prostate Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy) 

Removes the prostate gland for early-stage disease. 
Modern techniques include laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery, ensuring precision, faster recovery, and high cure rates. 

3. Radiation Therapy 

Destroys cancer cells via external beam or brachytherapy (radioactive seed implants). 
Often used as an alternative to surgery or alongside hormone therapy. 

4. Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy) 

Reduces testosterone to slow cancer growth. Commonly used if: 

  • Cancer has spread 
  • Combined with radiation 
  • Surgery isn’t suitable 

5. Chemotherapy 

For advanced disease unresponsive to hormone therapy. 

6. Targeted & Immunotherapy 

Modern breakthroughs allow drugs that attack cancer cells specifically or boost the immune system, improving survival even in advanced stages. 

Lifestyle Changes That Support Treatment 

  • Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s 
  • Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight 
  • Limit red and processed meats 
  • Quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake 
  • Manage stress through mindfulness or counseling 

Doctors at Reem Hospital can guide men on nutrition and wellness plans that complement medical care. 

Did You Know? Screening can detect prostate cancer years before symptoms appear — dramatically improving treatment success. Most cases are highly treatable when detected early. 

When to See a Doctor 

Seek medical attention if you experience: 

  • Difficulty urinating 
  • Weak urine flow 
  • Persistent pelvic or back pain 
  • Blood in urine or semen 
  • Erectile changes 
  • Unexplained weight loss 

Even without symptoms, screening from age 45 (or earlier with risk factors) is strongly recommended. 

Final Thoughts 

Prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men, yet it is also one of the most preventable and treatable when detected early. 
Knowing the symptoms, understanding your risks, and scheduling a baseline PSA test around age 45 could make a life-saving difference. 

At Reem Hospital, our urologists offer advanced diagnostic testing, personalized treatment, and comprehensive support — helping every man take control of his health with confidence. 

Early Diagnosis Saves Lives

Share on:

Written By
Dr. Rahaf Wagdy

Medical Content Writer

Dr. Rahaf Wagdy is an Egyptian nuclear radiologist and medical content creator who merges her clinical expertise with digital creativity. With over five years of experience in medical content writing in both Arabic and English, she is dedicated to simplifying...

Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Maciej Szwedowski

Consultant Urologist

Dr. Maciej Szwedowski is a Western Board-certified Urologist with a focus on Men’s Health and minimally invasive surgery. He earned his Master’s degree (MD) and Doctorate (PhD) in Medicine in Poland and is a Fellow of the European Board of...

Meet Our Urologists / Prostate specialists

Dr. Hamdy Aboutaleb

Urology
Consultant Urology - Head of Department
Book an Appointment

Dr. Maciej Szwedowski

Urology
Consultant Urologist
Book an Appointment

Dr. Madeh El Walili

Urology
Specialist Urology
Book an Appointment

Get In Touch

Location