The prostate is a small gland found only in men. It sits just below the bladder and in front of the rectum.

Its job is to make fluid that mixes with sperm to form semen, which helps protect and nourish sperm.

Prostate cancer happens when harmful cells in the prostate grow in an abnormal way.

At first, the cancer may stay inside the prostate and can often be treated successfully.

If it is not found early, it can spread to nearby organs or even to the bones, making treatment more difficult.

All men are at risk of prostate cancer, but some face higher risk than others.

Factors that increase risk include older age, African ancestry, and family history of the disease.

Men with inherited gene mutations such as BRCA2 (BReast CAncer gene 2) are also more vulnerable.

Obesity and diets high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables are linked to more aggressive forms of prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer symptoms vary by individual and disease stage. Common signs include:

• Difficulty starting urination or emptying the bladder completely
• Weak or interrupted urine flow
• Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
• Pain or burning sensation while urinating
• Blood in urine or semen (hematuria/hematospermia)
• Pelvic discomfort or pain
• Painful ejaculation
• Persistent pain in the back, hips or thighs (often linked to spread to bones)

While these may be caused by other conditions such as prostatitis, medical attention is essential.

Because prostate cancer often develops silently, many men do not notice symptoms until the disease is advanced, making early detection through screening vital.

Yes, you can. We conduct several tests to detect prostate cancer early. Screening should begin at age 50 for most men, and at age 45 for those at higher risk.

Our screening service includes:

• Prostate-Specific Antigen Test or PSA: A blood test that measures the level of PSA in the blood, with high levels indicating the likelihood of cancer
• Digital Rectal Examination: A clinical examination that we perform to assess the size and consistency of the prostate by touch

If results are abnormal, further tests may be performed such as:

• Prostate Biopsy: The removal of a small cell sample from the prostate gland which is examined under a microscope for features of cancerous cells
• Ultrasound Scans: Allowing us to see and examine a real-time image of the prostate for abnormalities

When prostate cancer is detected, we recommend either monitoring or treatment depending on its stage. 

Early, slow‑growing cancers may be managed with regular check‑ups and tests. Treatment is advised if the cancer begins to grow or spread.

Our main treatment methods include:

• Prostatectomy: A surgical procedure involving the removal of the prostate gland and, in advance stages, surrounding tissues and organs that may be affected,
• Hormone therapy: The use of medications to reduce the testosterone level in the body if the hormone affects the cancer cell growth, and
• Chemotherapy: The use of medications to weaken and kill the cancer cells.

We also refer patients for radiation therapy, which uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.

You can significantly lower your risk by adopting healthy lifestyle practices.

• Begin regular prostate cancer screening at age 50, or at age 45 if you are at higher risk (African ancestry, family history).
• Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and legumes. Limit red meat, processed foods and saturated fats.
• Maintain a healthy weight and stay active with regular physical exercise.
• Reduce alcohol intake to moderate levels.
• Do not smoke, and avoid exposure to second-and smoke.

To learn more about prostate cancer, our screening services, other cancers, available treatments and male reproductive health concerns:

• Call us: + 220 39 25 639, + 220 99 25 639, + 220 66 25 639 or +220 777 35 00
• Email us: info@bafrow.org
• Visit us at our hospital in Serrekunda