Prostate cancer is a common cancer in older men. It often progresses slowly, with noticeable symptoms appearing in later stages when the cancer has already spread.

Doctor Nguyen Thanh Trung from the Oncology Department of Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi explains that a large prostate tumor can invade nearby tissues and organs, including the bladder, urethra, rectum, seminal vesicles, and spermatic ducts. Cancer cells can break away from the original tumor, enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system, and travel to distant sites in the body, forming secondary tumors. Here are some of the most common sites of metastasis for prostate cancer.

Bones

This is the most common site of metastasis. Cancer cells often settle in the spine (especially the lumbar region), pelvis, ribs, and femur. Bone metastasis often causes pain, which is worse at night or during activity, and can make bones more prone to fractures.

Lymph nodes

Prostate cancer often spreads first to the lymph nodes in the pelvic area. This stage often has no obvious symptoms unless the nodes become very large, compressing lymphatic vessels and leading to leg swelling. As the disease progresses, cancer cells can spread to more distant lymph nodes outside the pelvis, such as those in the groin or neck.

A nurse cares for a cancer patient. Photo: *Tam Anh General Hospital*

Lungs

Symptoms of prostate cancer that has spread to the lungs include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. According to Dr. Trung, the prognosis for lung metastasis is generally worse than for bone metastasis, ranging from a few months to about 1-2 years, depending on the response to treatment.

Liver

Liver metastasis is common in the late stages of prostate cancer. Common symptoms include jaundice, yellowing of the eyes, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, and pain in the upper right abdomen.

Brain

Although less common than other sites, prostate cancer can spread to the brain in late stages, causing serious symptoms. These may include persistent and worsening headaches, nausea, vomiting, seizures, limb weakness, and difficulty maintaining balance. Patients may also experience personality changes, speech problems, confusion, and memory loss. The average survival time for patients with prostate cancer that has metastasized to the brain is only a matter of months.

Dr. Trung advises men aged 50 and older, or those with a family history of the disease, to undergo regular screening as recommended by their doctor for early detection of prostate cancer. Early detection allows for timely and effective treatment, improving outcomes and extending life expectancy.

Anh Kiet