Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of male cancer-related deaths in the US, with about 34,700 deaths and 288,300 new cases in 2023. About 13% of all average American males would be diagnosed with this condition in their lifetime.[1]
Stage 4 prostate cancer is the most advanced stage of the disease, meaning the cancer has spread beyond the prostate to distant body parts, often bones. It typically progresses from localized disease to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, and finally to distant organs through metastasis.
Family history of this disorder significantly indicates the likelihood of developing the disease. At the same time, several lifestyle factors can promote its development.[1] To avoid prostate cancer from developing further, doctors must properly identify these risk factors and prescribe screenings promptly.
Apart from the aforementioned factors, diagnostic delays can also allow prostate cancer to reach stage 4. Affected patients are entitled to compensation through a medical malpractice claim.
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Risk Factors Associated with Prostate Cancer
While usually slow-growing, prostate cancer can spread beyond the prostate to other parts of the body if not detected early. With early stages often having no symptoms, doctors must remain vigilant when certain risk factors are present.[2] Some of these risk factors include:[3]
- Family history of prostate cancer
- Age (risk increases significantly after 50)
- African ancestry (higher risk than other ethnic groups)
- Genetic mutations (especially BRCA1/BRCA2 genes)
- Certain inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome
By having these risk factors acknowledged, doctors may more promptly prescribe necessary screening tests.
Lifestyle Factors that Promote Prostate Cancer
At the same time, lifestyle factors such as the following can further promote prostate cancer:[3]
- High intake of red meat and dairy
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Alcohol abuse
- Lack of regular exercise
- High calcium intake
- Unhealthy ejaculation habits
Prostate Cancer Symptoms and Screening
Most men often do not exhibit signs of prostate cancer during earlier stages. Prostate cancer may have advanced if these symptoms present themselves:[4]
- Difficulty in urination
- Urinating often (especially at night)
- Trouble in emptying the bladder completely
- Pain during urination
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Recurring pain in the back/hips/pelvis
- Painful ejaculation
Patients should schedule a check-up as soon as these symptoms present themselves. However, there are no standard tests specifically for prostate cancer. Screening tests that will be prescribed by doctors often screen for different types of cancer.[5] Prostate cancer diagnosis may be further delayed if one of the following mistakes is committed:
- Getting a false-positive result – this endangers patients by exposing them to unnecessary and potentially harmful treatments.
- Getting a false-negative result – this effectively allows the prostate cancer to be ignored, allowing the disease to develop further.
Prostate Cancer was Misdiagnosed?
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At the Porter Law Group, our team of proven medical malpractice lawyers delivers ideal results. We take pride in helping families rebuild after unfavorable circumstances. We operate on a contingency basis, meaning you do not need to pay us anything unless we win your case. This approach allows us to better support those in need.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice, please reach out to us for a non-obligatory free case evaluation. You can also contact us at 833-PORTER9 or info@porterlawteam.com to schedule a consultation.
