Medically reviewed by
M.Ch. Urology (CMC Vellore) · Fellowship in Urologic Oncology & Robotic Surgery (University of Miami) · NMC Reg. No. NMC/2005020914
This page is for general health information and education only. It does not replace a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor who has examined you.
Prostate cancer is a cancer of the prostate gland in men. Many prostate cancers grow slowly and are found through a PSA blood test and MRI before they cause symptoms. Treatment depends on the risk group and can range from careful monitoring (active surveillance) to robotic surgery or radiation.
Symptoms and the PSA test
Early prostate cancer usually causes no symptoms. Urinary symptoms such as a weak stream or getting up at night are far more often due to benign prostate enlargement (BPH). Advanced cancer can cause bone pain, weight loss or blood in the urine or semen.
PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a blood test. A raised PSA does not confirm cancer; infection, enlargement and recent activity can also raise it. See prostate cancer screening for who should consider testing.
How prostate cancer is diagnosed
- Multiparametric MRI of the prostate to look for suspicious areas.
- Targeted prostate biopsy (transperineal or transrectal) to confirm cancer and its grade.
- Staging scans such as PSMA PET-CT or bone scan when the risk is intermediate or high.
Staging and risk groups
Doctors combine the PSA level, the Gleason score / ISUP grade group and the MRI or clinical stage to place the cancer in a risk group: low, intermediate (favourable or unfavourable), high or very high risk. Cancer that has spread beyond the prostate is described as locally advanced or metastatic.
Treatment options at a glance
| Option | Who it usually suits | Hospital stay | Main side effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active surveillance | Low-risk and some favourable intermediate-risk cancers | None | Repeat PSA, MRI and biopsy over time |
| Robotic radical prostatectomy | Cancer confined to the prostate in men fit for surgery | Usually 2–3 days | Temporary leakage of urine; erection problems |
| Radiation therapy (with or without hormone therapy) | Localised or locally advanced cancer; men who prefer not to have surgery | Day treatment over several weeks | Bowel and bladder irritation; erection problems |
| Systemic treatment | Metastatic prostate cancer | Usually none | Depends on the medicine used |
The right choice depends on the cancer, age, general health and personal priorities. Many men benefit from discussing surgery and radiation with both a urologist and a radiation oncologist. A second opinion can help when options are unclear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is prostate cancer curable?
When it is found while still confined to the prostate, prostate cancer can often be controlled for the long term with surgery or radiation. Results depend on the stage and grade, and no treatment can guarantee a cure.
Does a high PSA mean I have cancer?
No. PSA can rise with infection, prostate enlargement and other causes. An MRI and, if needed, a biopsy are used to find out whether cancer is present.
What is active surveillance?
It means monitoring a low-risk cancer with regular PSA tests, MRI and repeat biopsies, and starting treatment only if the cancer shows signs of progressing.
How long is recovery after robotic prostatectomy?
Most men go home within 2–3 days and return to desk work in about 2–3 weeks. Urinary control usually improves over weeks to months.
References
- EAU-EANM-ESTRO-ESUR-ISUP-SIOG Guidelines on Prostate Cancer, European Association of Urology, 2025 edition. uroweb.org
- Eastham JA et al. Clinically Localized Prostate Cancer: AUA/ASTRO Guideline. J Urol 2022;208:10–18.