Explore prostate cancer symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. Get accurate medical information and support from Medical Park experts.

The prostate gland is an organ exclusive to males. Most men suffer from issues related to the prostate as they age. This may range from an increase in prostate size to even malignancy. Prostate cancer is a common concern that significantly impacts male health.                   

Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignancies in the world. Although the disease has a good prognosis for the most part, early detection offers the best chance at treatment success. According to the current epidemiological data, the incidence of prostate cancer in Turkey is 35 in 100,000 cases. 

In this blog, you’ll learn about the symptoms, risk factors, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for prostate cancer along with practical tips on early detection and prevention.

What Is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably, potentially spreading to other parts of the body if left untreated. As public awareness increases, prostate health is gaining more attention in Turkey, with more men seeking information, screening, and early diagnosis.

The Prostate Gland and Its Function

The prostate gland is a small gland below the bladder in males. It is an important part of the male reproductive system and produces seminal fluid that carries sperm and improves their motility. The size of the prostate gland in the literature is comparable to a walnut. It has five lobes and weighs approximately 30 grams. 

Common prostate issues include Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy and Prostate cancer. For a complete prostate check-up in Istanbul, patients can seek evaluation at the Medical Park Hospitals.

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

In its early stages, prostate cancer symptoms can often be unnoticable. However, as the disease progresses, certain signs may begin to appear. Common symptoms reported by patients seeking prostate cancer treatment in Turkey include:

Early-Stage Symptoms

Common early-stage prostate cancer symptoms reported by patients include nocturia (increased urge to urinate at night), interrupted urine stream, urinary hesitancy, and urinary retention, which is the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.

Advanced-Stage Symptoms

When prostate cancer reaches an advanced stage, symptoms become more noticeable and may affect multiple areas of the body. These can include pain in the penis or testicles, a frequent or urgent need to urinate, and dysuria (discomfort or pain during urination or ejaculation). Other signs may include blood in the urine or semen, erectile dysfunction, persistent bone pain, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

Comprehensive prostate evaluations are widely available in Istanbul and other major cities across Turkey. For men over the age of 50, regular prostate check-ups are strongly recommended as an important step toward early detection and prevention.

When to See a Doctor

Men experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above should not delay seeking a professional evaluation. Early consultation with a urologist or oncologist can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.

Despite ongoing efforts to raise awareness about prostate cancer in Turkey and worldwide, stigma and cultural barriers still prevent many men from seeking timely care. Factors such as traditional views on masculinity, concerns about privacy, embarrassment, or fear of a cancer diagnosis often contribute to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

For more information on prostate health, diagnostic tests, and related conditions, visit our Urology Department page.

Causes and Risk Factors of Prostate Cancer

The exact causes of prostate cancer remains unclear. However, several well-established risk factors can increase a man's likelihood of developing the disease. Based on international guidelines, doctors in Turkey routinely inform patients about the following key risk factors:

Age

Prostate cancer is more common in older men. The risk increases significantly after the age of 50, making regular prostate health evaluations essential for early detection.

Family History and Genetics

Men with a family history of prostate cancer or inherited genetic mutations may face a higher risk. Having a father or brother with the disease can double the risk, especially if diagnosed at a younger age.

Ethnicity

Ethnicity also plays a role. Men of African descent are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and often present with more aggressive forms of the disease.

Obesity and Other Lifestyle Factors

While the connection is still being studied, research suggests that obesity and certain lifestyle habits, such as a high-fat diet, low physical activity, and poor nutrition, may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer or contribute to more aggressive disease progression.

In Turkey, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools and widespread access to medical care make it easier for patients to undergo routine prostate evaluations. Public awareness campaigns, particularly in cities like Istanbul, also play a key role in promoting early diagnosis and encouraging men to take a proactive approach to their prostate health.

Diagnosing Prostate Cancer

Early prostate cancer diagnosis is key to improving treatment outcomes and preventing disease progression. In Turkey, a combination of advanced testing methods is used to accurately diagnose prostate cancer. These include:

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test

The PSA test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen—a protein produced by the prostate—in the blood. Elevated PSA levels may indicate several prostate conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostate inflammation, recent prostate manipulation, or prostate cancer. While not conclusive on its own, a high PSA level is often the first indicator that further evaluation is needed.

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)

A digital rectal exam involves a physician manually assessing the prostate gland through the rectum. This physical exam helps detect abnormalities such as enlargement, lumps, asymmetry, or unusual texture that may point to cancer or other prostate issues.

Prostate Biopsy

If PSA levels and DRE results raise concern, a prostate biopsy may be recommended. During this procedure, small samples of prostate tissue are collected and examined under a microscope to confirm or rule out the presence of cancer cells.

Imaging Tests

Advanced imaging plays a crucial role in assessing the prostate and identifying cancer spread. Common imaging tests include:

• TRUS (Transrectal Ultrasound)

• mpMRI (Multiparametric MRI) Scan

• CT Scan

• PET Scan

• Bone Scan

As a leading destination for medical tourism, prostate cancer scans in Turkey are both affordable and widely accessible. For those seeking a complete prostate cancer workup in Istanbul, facilities like Medical Park Hospital offer modern diagnostic tools and expert care tailored to both local and international patients.

Prostate Cancer Treatment Options

The choice of prostate cancer treatment depends on the stage of diagnosis, the extent of cancer spread, and the patient's overall health. In Turkey, patients have access to a wide range of advanced and personalized treatment options:

Active Surveillance and Watchful Waiting

For men with slow-growing or low-risk tumors, active surveillance may be recommended. This involves close monitoring using PSA tests, digital rectal exams (DRE), biopsies, and imaging to track cancer progression. The goal is to delay or avoid invasive treatment and its side effects while keeping the disease under control.

In older patients or those with serious health conditions, watchful waiting may be a more appropriate approach. This strategy involves fewer tests and interventions, focusing instead on symptom management if the cancer progresses.

Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy)

Radical prostatectomy involves surgically removing the prostate gland and surrounding tissue. In Istanbul, this procedure is available in various forms, including open surgery, laparoscopic techniques, and robot-assisted prostatectomy. While effective, surgery can lead to side effects such as urinary incontinence or erectile dysfunction, which should be discussed in advance with a specialist.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is commonly used to treat localized prostate cancer, either as a primary treatment or after surgery. It can be delivered externally (external beam radiation therapy) or internally through brachytherapy, where radioactive seeds are placed inside the prostate.

Hormone Therapy

Also known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), this treatment reduces levels of male hormones (androgens) that fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells. Hormone therapy is often used in more advanced or recurring cases.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses cancer-killing drugs to target rapidly dividing cells and is typically reserved for advanced or metastatic prostate cancer. It may be used alongside hormone therapy or after other treatments fail to control the disease.

Emerging Treatments: HIFU and Cryotherapy

Turkey also offers minimally invasive treatments such as High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) and cryotherapy. These innovative options use targeted energy (either heat or freezing) to destroy cancer cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue, making them suitable for selected patients seeking alternatives to traditional surgery or radiation.

For more information on personalized cancer treatment options for international patients in Turkey, visit our Oncology Treatment in Turkey page.

Living with Prostate Cancer

Living with prostate cancer involves more than just managing physical symptoms—it also requires ongoing emotional, psychological, and clinical support. Many patients benefit from a multidisciplinary approach that includes urologists, oncologists, mental health professionals, and support networks to help navigate the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Managing Side Effects of Treatment

Proper management of treatment side effects (incontinence, ED, fatigue, hot flashes, etc.) improves overall quality of life.

Emotional and Psychological Support

Prostate cancer treatment can take a toll physically and mentally. Patients require emotional and psychological support for treatment success.

Follow-up Care

Recurrences and side effects of prostate cancer are common. Therefore, long-term follow-up care is necessary for a healthy life.

Prevention of Prostate Cancer

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, certain strategies can help reduce risk and support long-term prostate health. Prevention efforts often focus on lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.

Lifestyle Recommendations

Maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced diet are important for overall well-being. Additionally, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, along with leading an active lifestyle, can help prevent prostate cancer.

Medications to Consider

In managing prostate health and related conditions, medications such as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and anti-inflammatories are commonly used. 5-alpha reductase inhibitors help reduce prostate size by blocking hormone conversion, while anti-inflammatory drugs can alleviate associated inflammation and discomfort.

Medical Park Hospitals offer comprehensive care for prostate cancer in Turkey, combining modern treatment technologies with patient-centered support services. With over 27 hospitals across the country, a combined capacity of 5,300 beds, and more than 2,500 medical professionals, Medical Park provides accessible and high-quality care for both local and international patients.

Medical Park is also accredited by international bodies such as Joint Commission International (JCI), reflecting its commitment to meeting global standards in healthcare quality and safety.

This content was developed by the MedicalPark Editorial Board and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalized care.