Prostate Cancer

Prostate Cancer

Yes, I have prostate cancer, but thankfully it's not killing me. It's not fun, but it doesn't have to be life-ending. Thanks to advances in diagnosis and treatment, prostate cancer can be addressed sooner and better than in the past. Sure, it can still be life-changing —at this point in my treatment I don't know if my capacity for erection and ejaculation will ever return —but on the plus side, right now I'm managing to enjoy life without those things. Hashtag #Gratitude.

Prostate cancer, often referred to as PCa by doctors and researchers, is the most common cancer in men. In some countries prostate cancer is more widespread than breast cancer (BCa). On this page I share what I have learned and written about PCA since I was diagnosed at age 69 (2021). At the bottom of the page I have included links where you can learn more. But let's start with a quick reminder of what and where the prostate is. Here's a handy diagram of finger pointing at the prostate:

Diagram showing the location of the prostate (adapted from public domain image)

Prostate Primer: where it is and what it does

The prostate is a small gland that resides between the bladder and the rectum. Present in most people who are assigned male at birth, the prostate is about the size or a walnut or ping-pong ball. The main function of the prostate is to produce seminal fluid, the liquid that mixes with sperm to form semen. That puts the prostate at the heart of multiple critical bodily functions. And that makes treating cancer in the prostate is very tricky.

During ejaculation, the prostate contracts to help propel semen through the urethra and out of the penis. Because the penis also handles output from the bladder, the urethra passes through the prostate, as you can see from the diagram above. That's why an enlarged prostate impacts urination, and why one of the main risks associated with prostate cancer treatment is damage to "water management," meaning the ability to start peeing, stop peeing, and fully empty the bladder.

My Prostate Cancer Blog Posts

• My First Prostate Biopsy, August, 2021
• First Biopsy Results
• Prostate Cancer Diary Day One

Prostate Cancer Support Orgs

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

• Prostate Cancer UK — The largest UK prostate cancer charity offering research funding, support services, and a national helpline. Website: https://prostatecanceruk.org/

• Tackle Prostate Cancer — The National Federation of Prostate Cancer Support Groups, representing 80+ patient-led groups across the UK. Website: https://tackleprostate.org/

🇺🇸 United States

• ZERO — The End of Prostate Cancer — A major US nonprofit focused on support, advocacy, and research funding. Website: https://zerocancer.org/

• UsTOO International — Provides nationwide peer support groups and education for men and families. Website: https://www.ustoo.org/

🇨🇦 Canada

• Prostate Cancer Canada — National organization supporting prevention, detection, and treatment initiatives. Website: http://www.prostatecancer.ca/

• Canadian Cancer Survivor Network – Prostate Cancer Resources — Provides extensive prostate cancer support information and links to international organizations. Website: https://survivornet.ca (main CCSN site; prostate cancer section referenced in source)

🇦🇺 Australia

• Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) — Australia’s leading prostate cancer charity, offering research funding, support groups, and specialist nurses. Website: https://www.pcfa.org.au/

• Movember Australia — Global men’s health charity supporting prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health programs. Website: https://au.movember.com/

Five Prostate Cancer Info Websites

1. Cancer Research UK — The largest cancer research organisation outside the US; provides comprehensive prostate cancer information, treatment options, risks, and clinical trial access. Website: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/

2. NHS — Authoritative UK government health guidance with clear explanations of symptoms, diagnosis, treatment pathways, and support. Website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-cancer/

3. Macmillan Cancer Support — Extensive prostate cancer information including treatment side effects, emotional support, and practical guidance. Website: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/prostate-cancer

4. Prostate Cancer Research – Infopool — A detailed patient information site covering treatment options, side‑effects, clinical trials, and hundreds of patient stories. Website: https://www.theinfopool.co.uk/

5. Orchid — UK charity focused on male cancers (prostate, testicular, penile) with medically reviewed prostate cancer guides and awareness resources. Website: https://orchid-cancer.org.uk/

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER — This page provides general information about prostate cancer. It is not medical advice. I, Stephen Cobb, am responsible for the content, and I am not a doctor. Do not rely on this website as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider about any medical concerns. If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of a medical condition, seek immediate medical attention. Never delay, ignore, or stop treatment because of something you read here. All medical information on this site is provided without warranties or guarantees of completeness, accuracy, or availability.