What Is Prostate Cancer? The “Silent Enemy”
Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably. The prostate, a gland unique to men, plays a key role in reproduction by producing the majority of the seminal fluid and essential nutrients for sperm function. It is located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum.
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| © Belgian Cancer Registry |
In Belgium, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with approximately 8,000 new cases diagnosed each year. Worldwide, it is the second most common cancer in males. While many prostate cancers grow slowly and remain confined to the prostate, others can be aggressive and spread rapidly. Early detection is therefore crucial — the earlier it is diagnosed, the more effective the treatment. Unfortunately, in most men, prostate cancer in its early stages causes no symptoms, earning it the name “silent enemy.”
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| © Belgian Cancer Registry |
Risk Factors: What Your Family History Can Reveal
Family history can act as a roadmap to genetic predispositions. Several factors influence prostate cancer risk:
Age: The risk increases significantly after the age of 50, though cases can occur earlier, especially when there is a strong family history of prostate or breast cancer.
Family history and genetics:
Having a father, brother, or uncle with prostate cancer increases the likelihood of developing the disease.
A history of breast cancer in close female relatives may also signal increased risk. Approximately 8% of prostate cancers are linked to inherited genetic mutations.
Men with a family history of prostate cancer should consider PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) testing from the age of 45.
Germline genetic testing may be recommended for men with multiple relatives diagnosed before age 60, a relative who died from prostate cancer, or those with high-risk mutations such as BRCA2. For carriers of such mutations, screening may begin at age 40. Genetic counseling is advised before testing.
Ethnic background: Men of African descent face a higher risk, often with earlier onset and more aggressive disease. Early screening from age 45 is advised, with part of the risk linked to healthcare access disparities.
Lifestyle: While genetics are important, lifestyle also matters. Obesity, smoking, and diets high in animal fats — the so-called “Western diet” — have been associated with increased risk.
When to Seek Medical Advice: Recognising Possible Symptoms
Early-stage prostate cancer is usually asymptomatic. However, when symptoms appear, they may include:
Urinary problems: increased frequency (especially at night), urgency, difficulty starting urination, or weak/interrupted flow.
Blood in urine or semen.
Erectile dysfunction or pain during ejaculation.
Bone pain (hips, lower back).
Unexplained weight loss or fevers.
These symptoms are not always due to cancer — they may be linked to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis — but they should always prompt a consultation with a urologist.
Diagnosis: How Prostate Cancer Is Confirmed
Diagnosis is made by a urologist and may involve:
PSA blood test: Elevated PSA levels can indicate a prostate problem, but not necessarily cancer.
Imaging: MRI or ultrasound for detailed evaluation.
Biopsy: The only definitive method to confirm cancer.
In Belgium, regular screening is generally offered between ages 50 and 74. For men at higher risk, earlier screening from age 40–45 is considered. Screening is not typically recommended for men with a life expectancy under 10–15 years.
Reducing Risk and Protecting Your Health
While you cannot change your genetics, you can reduce modifiable risk factors:
Stop smoking.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Engage in regular physical activity.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, cooked tomatoes, and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower), while limiting animal fats.
Schedule regular check-ups with your urologist.
Survival rates are encouraging: in Belgium, the 5-year survival rate is around 95% back in 2013, which has improved significantly over the years, reaching 99% in 2023 and in the US, localized prostate cancer has a survival rate above 99%. When diagnosed late, the disease may be managed as a chronic condition, but the chances of cure are reduced.
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| © Belgian Cancer Registry |
Living with Prostate Cancer: The Role of Support
Diagnosis can cause significant emotional distress for patients and families. Support groups — whether online or in-person — provide valuable opportunities to share experiences and practical advice, especially regarding treatment side effects such as urinary incontinence or erectile dysfunction. These communities remain underutilized despite proven benefits for quality of life.
Your Health Is Part of Your Family Legacy
Just as we preserve the stories and traditions of our ancestors, we must also pass on knowledge about inherited health risks. Discussing prostate cancer openly within the family helps ensure that at-risk relatives — both male and female — are informed and proactive.
By combining awareness, early screening, and healthy lifestyle choices, you can take a decisive step in protecting your health and ensuring that your family’s legacy includes not just its history, but also its wellbeing.
Taking Action
Speak openly with your family about cancer history.
Consider earlier PSA screening if you have risk factors.
Adopt healthy habits: balanced diet, exercise, no smoking.
Your Health Is Part of Your Family Legacy
Just as we preserve the stories and traditions of our ancestors, we must also pass on knowledge about inherited health risks. Discussing prostate cancer openly within the family helps ensure that at-risk relatives — both male and female — are informed and proactive.
By combining awareness, early screening, and healthy lifestyle choices, you can take a decisive step in protecting your health and ensuring that your family’s legacy includes not just its history, but also its wellbeing.
If you have concerns about your risk or wish to discuss personalised screening and prevention strategies, I invite you to book a consultation at UroBrussels. Together, we can assess your individual situation and create a tailored plan for your prostate health.
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