What is Prostate Cancer

by Aashish Passi, 19 Jul 2025

Prostate cancer is a disease where cells in the prostate gland—the small, walnut-shaped gland below the bladder and in front of the rectum in males—begin to grow uncontrollably[1][2][3][4][5]. The prostate is part of the male reproductive system and produces fluid that is a component of semen[1][2][3][5].

Most prostate cancers are classified as adenocarcinomas, which originate from the glandular cells of the prostate[2][3][6]. There are rarer types, such as small cell carcinoma and sarcomas, but these are uncommon[2][3].

Key facts:

· Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men worldwide[1][3][4][7].

· It often grows slowly and may not cause significant problems if it remains confined to the prostate[3][5][8]. However, some prostate cancers are more aggressive and can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, particularly the bones and lymph nodes[4][8].

· Early-stage prostate cancer usually does not cause symptoms. As it progresses, symptoms may include difficulty urinating, a weak or interrupted urine stream, frequent urination (especially at night), blood in urine or semen, painful urination or ejaculation, and pain in the back, hips, or pelvis[4][5][8].

· Risk factors include age (risk increases as men get older), family history of prostate or certain other cancers, race (higher risk in Black men), and possibly higher body weight[1][5].

Diagnosis often involves screening tests such as measuring prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in the blood and may require a biopsy for confirmation[4]. The prognosis and treatment depend on how early the cancer is detected and whether it has spread[1][3][4].

Treatment options vary from active surveillance for slow-growing cancers to surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy for more advanced disease[4][8].

In summary, prostate cancer is a common and potentially serious disease of the male reproductive system, but outcomes are generally favorable when detected and treated early[1][3][4][8].

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what is prostate in men

The prostate in men is a small, walnut-shaped gland that is part of the male reproductive system. It is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum, and it surrounds the urethra—the tube through which urine and semen exit the body[9][10][11][12].

Main functions of the prostate:

· Produces prostatic fluid, which is a key component of semen. This fluid nourishes and helps transport sperm during ejaculation[9][11][13][14][15].

· Supports ejaculation by helping to propel semen through the urethra[9][16].

· Helps regulate urine flow because the urethra passes through the center of the prostate; changes in the prostate can affect urination[11][12].

Structure:

· The prostate is about the size of a walnut in younger men but may enlarge with age[9][10][11].

· It is made up of glandular tissue (which produces fluid), connective tissue, and smooth muscle, all surrounded by a thin, fibrous capsule[10][11][16].

· The gland is divided into several anatomical zones and lobes, with the peripheral zone being the most common site for prostate cancer[16].

Common prostate conditions include benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlargement), prostatitis (inflammation), and prostate cancer[9][11].

In summary, the prostate is a crucial gland for male fertility and reproductive health, playing a central role in both semen production and urinary function.

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How does prostate enlargement affect urinary function in men

Prostate enlargement, known medically as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), affects urinary function in men primarily by putting pressure on the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body) and sometimes the bladder itself. As the prostate grows, it can squeeze or partially block the urethra, making it harder for urine to pass through[17][18][19][20].

Common urinary symptoms caused by prostate enlargement include:

· Difficulty starting urination

· Weak or interrupted urine stream

· Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)

· Urgency to urinate

· Feeling that the bladder is not completely empty after urination

· Dribbling at the end of urination

· Pain during urination (less common)

As the bladder works harder to push urine through the narrowed urethra, its muscles can become thicker and over time may weaken, leading to incomplete bladder emptying. This can result in urine retention, which increases the risk of urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and in severe cases, kidney damage[17][18][19][21][20][22].

It's important to note that the size of the prostate does not always correlate with the severity of symptoms—some men with a large prostate may have few symptoms, while others with only mild enlargement may experience significant urinary problems[17][23][21].

In rare cases, men may experience acute urinary retention, a sudden inability to urinate, which is a medical emergency[21][20].

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What are the long-term effects of urinary retention caused by prostate enlargement

Long-term urinary retention caused by prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH) can lead to several significant complications affecting the urinary tract and overall health:

· Bladder damage: When the bladder cannot fully empty over time, it becomes stretched and weakened. This can reduce its ability to contract properly, making it even harder to empty urine and potentially leading to permanent bladder dysfunction[24][25][26].

· Kidney damage: Increased pressure in the bladder from retained urine can force urine backward into the kidneys (a condition called reflux), which may cause kidney damage or scarring. Prolonged retention raises the risk of chronic kidney disease[24][27][28][26].

· Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Stagnant urine in the bladder provides an environment for bacteria to grow, increasing the risk of repeated infections. Chronic or recurrent UTIs can further damage the bladder and kidneys[27][28][26][29].

· Bladder stones: Incomplete bladder emptying can lead to the formation of bladder stones, which may cause pain, infection, or further block urine flow[25][27][28].

· Visible blood in urine (hematuria): Chronic retention and irritation of the bladder lining can sometimes cause blood to appear in the urine[25][27].

· Acute urinary retention: Long-term partial retention increases the risk of suddenly being unable to urinate at all, which is a medical emergency and can rapidly worsen kidney function[27][28].

· Need for long-term catheterization: In some cases, persistent retention may require ongoing use of a catheter to empty the bladder, which carries its own risks, such as infection and discomfort[30][26].

Prompt treatment of urinary retention and underlying prostate enlargement reduces the risk of these long-term complications and helps preserve bladder and kidney health[24][25][27].

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Shilajit and Urinary Tract Health

Shilajit is a natural, mineral-rich substance used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is traditionally valued for its rejuvenating, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic properties, with specific benefits for the urinary tract and male reproductive health.

Role of Shilajit in the Urinary Tract

· Supports Urinary Function: Shilajit is known to help rejuvenate the urinary tract, promote healthy urine flow, and support optimal kidney and bladder function. Its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce urinary discomfort and improve overall urinary health[31][32].

· Prevents Obstruction: In Ayurveda, shilajit is described as Mootrala (promotes urination) and Srotorodha Hara (removes obstructions in urinary channels), making it beneficial for conditions involving urinary retention or difficulty[32]. Dr. Vikrant Sharma from Prabhat Ayurvedic Pharmacy has highlighted that shilajit is frequently referenced in classical Ayurvedic texts for its medicinal value in addressing urinary tract problems.

According to K Kiran - PhD Scholar, Department of Kayachikitsa, Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College of Ayurveda, Kuthpady, Udupi, Karnataka, India., in her article - Unveiling the efficacy of Shilajit in Urinary Disorders: A Conceptual Review says that “The inherent properties of Shilajit like Mootrala (increases urine production), Srotorodha Hara (Removes obstruction of the channels), Basti Ruja Hara (Alleviates pain in Bladder region), Chedi (To cut) and Tridosha Hara (Corrects Doshic imbalances), makes it more useful to treat urinary disorders. Recent researches on Shilajit also emphasize its role in various urinary conditions. Shilajit shows its efficiency in treating urinary disorders like, Mootraghata, Mootrakrichra and Ashmari.”

· Reduces Risk of Stones and Infections: Shilajit is traditionally believed to help prevent kidney stones and urinary tract infections, although robust clinical evidence is limited. Its bioactive compounds may help maintain a healthy urinary environment[33][34].

Shilajit and Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, BPH)

· Reduces Prostate Size (Animal Studies): Experimental studies in rats have shown that shilajit can significantly reduce testosterone-induced prostate enlargement. It appears to inhibit the enzyme 5α-reductase, which is involved in the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT)—a key factor in prostate growth. In these studies, shilajit reduced prostate weight and improved prostate tissue structure, with effects comparable to standard medications like finasteride[35][36].

· Improves Urinary Symptoms: By reducing the size of the prostate and its pressure on the urethra, shilajit may help alleviate common urinary symptoms of BPH, such as weak stream, frequent urination, and incomplete bladder emptying[35][37].

· Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: Shilajit’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help reduce inflammation in the prostate and urinary tract, potentially improving comfort and reducing the risk of secondary complications[38][37].

· Traditional Use: Ayurveda often prescribes shilajit, alone or with other herbs, for urinary disorders and prostate health, especially in elderly men experiencing symptoms of BPH[39][40].

Practical Considerations

· Clinical Evidence: While animal and traditional studies are promising, large-scale human clinical trials are limited. Most evidence for shilajit’s benefits in BPH and urinary health comes from animal research and centuries of Ayurvedic practice[35][39].

· Safety: Shilajit is generally considered safe when used as directed, but individuals with chronic kidney disease or a history of kidney stones should consult a healthcare provider before use[33].

· Dosage: There is no standardized dose for shilajit in BPH. It is best to follow product instructions or consult an Ayurvedic practitioner.

In summary: Shilajit may support urinary tract health and help manage symptoms of prostate enlargement, especially by reducing inflammation, supporting urine flow, and potentially inhibiting prostate growth. However, more human clinical research is needed to confirm these effects and determine optimal usage[35][32][39].

You can also consult our blog on Side Effects of Shilajit for more information on shilajit.

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1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prostate-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20353087

2. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/prostate-cancer/about/what-is-prostate-cancer.html

3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8634-prostate-cancer

4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prostate_cancer

5. https://medlineplus.gov/prostatecancer.html

6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470550/

7. https://www.cancer.gov/types/prostate

8. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/150086

9. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23965-prostate

10. https://dreminozbek.com/en/what-is-prostate-anatomy-functions-and-diseases/