⚕️ Educational Resource – Not Medical Advice
This article provides general educational information about prostate cancer screening, symptoms, and prevention. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding prostate cancer, screening recommendations, or your individual health situation.
For immediate medical concerns or symptoms, contact your healthcare provider or call QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy at (917) 830-2525 or (800) 496-6111 for medication assistance and patient navigation.
The five warning signs of prostate cancer are: Frequent urination, difficulty stopping or starting urination, weak or interrupted flow of urine, pain or burning during urination, and blood in urine or semen. If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms please seek an official medical opinion immediately. The internet is no substitute for the knowledge of a trained medical professional. For medication assistance or patient navigation support, contact QuickRx at (917) 839-2525 or (800) 496-6111. For more information on these symptoms, see the list of expanded information below.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment and at-home detection is not a reliable diagnosis. Being aware of the warning signs can make a significant difference.
Five key warning signs to watch for
1. Frequent Urination
An increased need to urinate, especially at night, can be an early indicator of prostate issues, including cancer. If you find yourself making more trips to the bathroom than usual, it might be time to consult a healthcare professional.
2. Difficulty Starting or Stopping Urination
Prostate cancer can cause changes in urinary habits, including difficulty initiating or stopping the flow of urine. This symptom can be caused by the tumor pressing on the urethra, which can obstruct the flow of urine.
3. Weak or Interrupted Urine Flow
A weak or interrupted urine stream can signal prostate problems. If you notice that your urine flow is not as strong as it used to be or it stops and starts during urination, it could be a sign of prostate cancer.
4. Pain or Burning Sensation During Urination
Experiencing pain or a burning sensation when urinating can be a symptom of prostate cancer. While this can also be caused by infections or other conditions, it’s important to get it checked out, especially if it’s a new or persistent problem.
5. Blood in Urine or Semen
The presence of blood in urine or semen is a more serious symptom that warrants immediate medical attention. This can be a sign of advanced prostate cancer and should not be ignored.
Other Symptoms to Watch For
In addition to these primary warning signs, other symptoms can also indicate prostate cancer, such as:
- Erectile Dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection can be related to prostate health.
- Pain in the Lower Back, Hips, or Thighs: Persistent pain in these areas can sometimes be a sign that prostate cancer has spread.
Importance of Regular Screening
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that men ages 55 to 69 make an individual decision about PSA screening after discussing the potential benefits and harms with their healthcare provider. For men at higher risk, including African American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer, screening discussions should begin at age 40 to 45.
Regular screening for prostate cancer is crucial, especially for men over 50 or those with a family history of the disease. Screening methods such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exam (DRE) can help detect prostate cancer early, even before symptoms appear.
How to check for prostate cancer at home
The short answer is: you can’t. Nothing can replace a professional medical exam.
Performing a prostate exam at home is not recommended. A prostate exam requires specific medical training and should be conducted by a healthcare professional to ensure accuracy and safety. Attempting to perform this exam at home can lead to incorrect conclusions, unnecessary anxiety, or missed diagnoses.
However, understanding what the exam entails and knowing the symptoms of potential prostate issues can help you make informed decisions about seeking medical care.
The National Cancer Institute provides comprehensive information about prostate cancer screening methods and their effectiveness in early detection.
Understanding the Prostate Exam
Why Not to Do It at Home
- Lack of Expertise
- A healthcare professional is trained to identify subtle differences in the prostate that an untrained person would not recognize.
- Risk of Injury
- Improper technique can cause discomfort, pain, or even injury.
- Misdiagnosis
- Without the appropriate skills, you might misinterpret what you feel, leading to unnecessary worry or a false sense of security.
What You Can Do at Home
Monitor Symptoms
Keep track of any symptoms that might indicate a prostate problem, such as:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood in urine or semen
- Persistent pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
A DRE is the standard physical examination used to check the prostate. Here’s what typically happens during a professional DRE:
- Preparation
- The patient is usually asked to stand and bend forward at the waist or lie on their side with knees pulled up to the chest.
- Examination
- The doctor wears a lubricated, gloved finger and gently inserts it into the rectum.
- The doctor feels the prostate gland, located in front of the rectum, to check for any abnormalities such as lumps, hard areas, or enlargement.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support prostate health:
- Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity helps maintain overall health.
- Avoid Risk Factors: Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that while no lifestyle changes can guarantee prevention of prostate cancer, maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and a balanced diet may help reduce risk.
Regular Medical Check-Ups
- Screening: Men over 50, or younger if at higher risk, should have regular prostate screenings, including PSA tests and DREs.
- Family History: If you have a family history of prostate cancer, discuss earlier and more frequent screenings with your doctor.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice any of the symptoms listed above or have concerns about your prostate health, schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional immediately- don’t wait! They can provide a thorough examination and recommend appropriate tests to diagnose or rule out prostate issues.
How QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy Can Help
If you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer and have been prescribed specialty medications for treatment, QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy offers comprehensive support services:
- Free Copay Assistance Navigation: We help patients access manufacturer copay cards and patient assistance programs to reduce out-of-pocket costs for prostate cancer medications
- Prior Authorization Support: Our team handles insurance paperwork and prior authorization requirements
- Medication Counseling: Licensed pharmacists provide guidance on how to take your medications and manage side effects
- Nationwide Service: We’re licensed in all 50 states and deliver directly to your door
Contact our patient navigation team at (917) 830-2525 or (800) 496-6111 to learn more about how we can help make your prostate cancer treatment more affordable and accessible.
Visit our copay assistance page to learn more about available financial support programs.
Is Welch’s grape juice good for prostate cancer?
Frequently Asked Questions About Prostate Cancer
At what age should men begin prostate cancer screening?
Most medical organizations recommend that men begin discussing prostate cancer screening with their healthcare provider at age 50. However, men at higher risk—including African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer—should begin these discussions at age 40 to 45.
What is a normal PSA level?
Generally, PSA levels below 4.0 ng/mL are considered normal, though this can vary based on age. Your healthcare provider will interpret your PSA results in the context of your age, family history, and other risk factors. Rising PSA levels over time can be more significant than a single elevated reading.
Can women get prostate cancer?
No, women cannot get prostate cancer because they do not have a prostate gland. However, women have Skene’s glands (sometimes called the “female prostate”) which can develop cancer, though this is extremely rare. Women should focus on screening for cancers that affect them, such as breast, ovarian, and cervical cancer.
Though prostate cancer is exclusive to men, it’s important for women to be aware of cancers that affect them, such as breast, ovarian, and cervical cancer. Regular screenings and awareness of symptoms can help in early detection and treatment.
Is Welch’s grape juice good for prostate cancer?
This is a common question many men ask when looking for dietary ways to support prostate health. While Welch’s grape juice and other grape juices contain beneficial antioxidants and polyphenols (particularly resveratrol), the scientific evidence specifically linking grape juice consumption to prostate cancer prevention or treatment is limited.
What the research shows:
- Antioxidant benefits: Grape juice does contain polyphenols and antioxidants that may provide general health benefits
- Limited prostate-specific research: Most studies on diet and prostate cancer focus on whole dietary patterns rather than individual foods or beverages
- Sugar content concerns: Many grape juices, including some commercial brands, contain high amounts of natural and added sugars, which may not be ideal for overall health
According to the National Cancer Institute, while antioxidants in foods may play a role in cancer prevention, individual supplements or isolated food components have not been proven to prevent cancer in clinical trials.
The bottom line: Rather than relying on any single food or beverage for prostate health, focus on an overall healthy dietary pattern rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. If you enjoy grape juice, it can be part of a balanced diet, but it shouldn’t be considered a specific treatment or prevention strategy for prostate cancer.
For evidence-based dietary recommendations specific to prostate cancer prevention, consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian who specializes in oncology nutrition.
Important Medical Disclaimer
Not Medical Advice
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, screening recommendations, or treatment options.
Individual Medical Decisions
Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article. Prostate cancer screening recommendations, treatment approaches, and management strategies should be personalized based on your individual risk factors, age, overall health status, family history, and preferences. What works for one patient may not be appropriate for another.
Emergency Medical Situations
If you experience severe symptoms such as inability to urinate, severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever with urinary symptoms, or other medical emergencies, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or going to your nearest emergency room. Do not wait to schedule a regular appointment.
Medication Information
QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy is a licensed pharmacy that provides medication dispensing services and copay assistance navigation. We do not diagnose medical conditions, recommend specific treatments, or change prescriptions. All medication decisions must be made by your prescribing physician. If you have questions about medications for prostate cancer or other conditions, consult your healthcare provider.
Screening Recommendations May Change
Medical guidelines and screening recommendations are periodically updated as new research becomes available. The screening ages and recommendations mentioned in this article reflect current general guidelines but may not apply to your specific situation. Always discuss screening timing and frequency with your healthcare provider based on your individual risk profile.
No Guarantee of Outcomes
Following the preventive measures, lifestyle recommendations, or screening guidelines discussed in this article does not guarantee prevention of prostate cancer or any specific health outcome. Cancer development involves multiple factors, many of which are beyond individual control.
QuickRx Services
QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy provides copay assistance navigation, medication counseling, and pharmacy services for patients who have been prescribed specialty medications by their healthcare providers. We cannot guarantee specific financial assistance amounts or program eligibility, as these are determined by manufacturer programs and patient eligibility criteria that may change.
For Questions About Prostate Cancer Treatment Medications:
Contact QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy at (917) 830-2525 or (800) 496-6111 for assistance with medication access, copay assistance programs, and patient support services.
Medical References & Resources
- American Cancer Society. (2024). Key Statistics for Prostate Cancer. www.cancer.org
- U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2018). Screening for Prostate Cancer: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement. www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org
- National Cancer Institute. (2024). Prostate Cancer Screening (PDQ®)–Patient Version. www.cancer.gov
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). What Can I Do to Reduce My Risk of Prostate Cancer? www.cdc.gov
- American Urological Association. (2023). Early Detection of Prostate Cancer: AUA Guideline. www.auanet.org
- Prostate Cancer Foundation. (2024). About Prostate Cancer. www.pcf.org
About QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy:
QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy is a nationwide specialty pharmacy licensed in all 50 states, dedicated to helping patients access and afford complex specialty medications. We provide free copay assistance navigation, prior authorization support, and comprehensive medication counseling for patients managing chronic and complex conditions. Learn more at www.quickrxspecialty.pharmacy or call (917) 830-2525.
Last Updated: November 14, 2025
Content Type: Educational Resource – Not Medical Advice
Reviewed By: QuickRx Clinical Education Team
