Prostate Cancer Symptoms & PSA Testing

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men in New Zealand, particularly over age 50. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. PSA testing can detect prostate cancer before symptoms appear, making it a key tool in early diagnosis.

Common Early Symptoms

Prostate cancer often develops slowly and may not cause symptoms early. When present, symptoms may include:

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Difficulty starting urination

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Weak or interrupted urine stream

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Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)

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Urgency to urinate

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Feeling the bladder is not empty

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Lower back, hip, or pelvic pain (later stages)

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Blood in urine or semen (less common)

These symptoms are common in benign conditions such as BPH, so specialist assessment is important.

PSA Testing: Early Detection

PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) testing is a simple blood test used to detect prostate cancer early.

Key points:

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Recommended for men over 50 (earlier with family history)

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Elevated PSA may indicate cancer or benign conditions

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Often combined with a digital rectal exam (DRE)

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Abnormal results require further investigation

Early testing improves the likelihood of successful treatment.

When to See a Specialist

You should see a urologist if you have:

  • Urinary symptoms
  • Blood in urine or semen
  • Family history of prostate cancer
  • Age over 50 and considering PSA testing

Diagnosis Pathway

If prostate cancer is suspected, further tests may include:

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Blood and urine tests

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Prostate MRI

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Prostate biopsy

This allows accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on cancer stage and patient factors.

Active Surveillance

  • For low-risk cancers
  • Regular PSA monitoring and imaging

Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

  • Minimally invasive prostate removal
  • Precise surgery with faster recovery

Other Treatments

  • Radiotherapy
  • Hormone therapy for advanced disease

Why Early Detection Matters

Early detection:

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Improves treatment success

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Reduces need for aggressive therapy

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Enhances long-term outcomes

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Newly Diagnosed With Prostate Cancer

A diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but most prostate cancers are highly treatable.

After diagnosis, your urologist will assess:

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Cancer stage and grade

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Overall health

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Suitable treatment options

Not all prostate cancers require immediate treatment.

Robotic Prostate Cancer Surgery

Robotic-assisted prostatectomy is a leading treatment for localised prostate cancer.

Benefits may include:

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Smaller incisions

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Less blood loss

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Faster recovery

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Short hospital stay

Surgery is performed at Grace Hospital, Tauranga.

Recovery After Treatment

Typical recovery includes:

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Hospital stay of 1 night

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Catheter for ~7 days

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Gradual return to normal activity over 2-4 weeks

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Ongoing PSA monitoring

Follow-Up Care

Long-term care includes:

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Regular PSA testing

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Specialist follow-up

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Monitoring recovery and outcomes

Prostate Cancer Support in New Zealand

Support services include:

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Cancer Society of New Zealand

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Prostate cancer support groups

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Specialist nursing support

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the early signs of prostate cancer?

Early prostate cancer may not cause symptoms. When present, symptoms often include urinary changes such as weak stream, frequency, or difficulty starting urination.

Should I have a PSA test?

PSA testing is recommended for men over 50, or earlier with a family history. Your GP or urologist can advise based on your risk.

Does a high PSA mean cancer?

Not always. PSA can be elevated due to benign prostate enlargement, infection, or inflammation. Further testing is needed.

Is prostate cancer curable?

Many prostate cancers are highly treatable, especially when detected early.

Do all men need treatment immediately?

No. Some low-risk cancers can be safely monitored with active surveillance.

What is robotic prostate surgery?

A minimally invasive procedure that removes the prostate using advanced robotic technology for greater precision and faster recovery.

Why Choose Urology BOP

Patients benefit from:

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Specialist assessment of sexual dysfunction in men and women

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Comprehensive testing for hormonal, vascular, neurological, and psychological factors

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Personalised treatment plans using medications, minimally invasive devices, hormone therapy, and counselling

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Long-term follow-up to monitor outcomes and maintain sexual health

Specialist Care

Urology Bay of Plenty provides expert diagnosis and treatment for prostate and urinary conditions, including advanced minimally invasive procedures.

If symptoms are affecting your quality of life, a urology consultation can help determine the best treatment.

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