Japanese online doctor discusses prostate cancer: early stages often asymptomatic

Prostate cancer, a significant health concern for men in Taiwan and Japan, is showing an increasing incidence rate. This trend is attributed to factors such as aging populations and dietary shifts towards Westernized patterns, characterized by high protein and fat intake.

Japanese online medical personality Dr. Toshiki Hosoda highlighted that early-stage prostate cancer is particularly insidious because it typically lacks noticeable symptoms. This characteristic underscores the importance of regular health screenings and awareness of potential risk factors, including family history, which can significantly increase an individual's risk.

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Prostate cancer is characterized by having almost no symptoms in its early stages.

While prostate enlargement, a common condition, often causes noticeable urinary difficulties that are easily detected, prostate cancer in its early phases usually does not manifest such clear signs. However, as the cancer progresses and potentially presses on the urethra, symptoms like difficulty urinating, a persistent feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, frequent urination, or pain during urination may arise. The presence of blood in urine or semen can also be an indicator.

Furthermore, if cancer cells metastasize to the spine or bones in the limbs, it can lead to persistent pain, distinct from sports injuries, which can even occur during rest at night. In severe cases, a complete blockage of the urethra by the tumor can result in an urgent medical condition requiring immediate attention. Dr. Hosoda advises consulting a physician if any concerns arise, with diagnostic methods including PSA tests, digital rectal exams, ultrasounds, MRI scans, and biopsies for definitive diagnosis.

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Prostate enlargement can compress the urethra, causing difficulty urinating, which is easily detected.