Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer occurs when cancer cells form in the tissue of the prostate. Only present in men, this walnut-shaped gland produces fluid that influences the nourishment and transportation of sperm.
Prostate cancer specialists in Richmond, Virginia
Our doctors are here to support you from the moment of your diagnosis.
At Retreat Doctors’ Hospital, a campus of Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, our prostate doctors offer advanced cancer care. Their years of experience help them create an effective treatment plan while listening to your concerns with empathy and compassion.
Have cancer questions?
We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated, confidential helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7.
We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated, confidential helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7.
Related specialties
Learn more about our related specialties.
Symptoms of prostate cancer
Patients with prostate cancer often do not show symptoms in early stages, which makes screening so important. When symptoms are present, they can include:
- Blood in the urine
- Blood in the semen
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pain in the hips, back or chest
- Persistent bone pain
- Problems urinating
- Reduced bladder or bowel control
- Weakness in the legs or feet
Our prostate care services
Early detection from screenings is the best way to achieve successful outcomes from prostate cancer. Our services include advanced diagnostics and treatments.
Prostate cancer screening
When prostate cancer is detected early — when it is still confined to the prostate gland — there is a better chance of successful treatment. Our cancer care doctors strongly recommend preventive screenings for prostate cancer by age 50 or earlier if you are at a higher risk, such as having a family member who had prostate cancer. One of the ways we screen is through prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing.
PSA, a type of protein, is made in the prostate gland and is released into the bloodstream. A PSA test measures the levels of PSA in the blood and produces the following test results:
- Positive — With a positive test result, you have raised levels of PSA and are likely to be diagnosed with cancer.
- Negative — With a negative test result, the PSA levels are normal, indicating there is likely no cancer.
Sometimes, the results of this test may require you to have further testing to get an accurate diagnosis. You can talk to your prostate cancer doctor about the risks and benefits of a PSA screening to make an informed decision for your health.
Prostate cancer treatment options
If you should receive a cancer diagnosis, our prostate cancer care team will be with you through treatment, survivorship and beyond. There are many different treatments available for prostate cancer. In addition to common cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, you may need surgery. Our doctors specialize in the following prostate cancer procedures:
- Prostatectomy — surgery that partially or completely removes the prostate, often completed using minimally invasive surgical methods, but open surgery can be necessary in some cases
- Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) — a minimally invasive robot-assisted surgery that helps ease or eliminate urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate using a laser to remove or destroy excess tissue causing urine flow problems
As a campus of Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, our patients have access to additional oncology services, if necessary.
Patient information
If you would like more information about robotic surgery or our urology services, we offer the following helpful documents:
Our prostate care recognitions
We have been recognized by professional organizations for our excellence in prostate care. We are proud to be among Healthgrades' America's 100 Best hospitals for prostate surgery and to be a Prostate Removal Surgery Five-Star Recipient. In addition, we have the Prostate Surgery Excellence Award for our excellent care and clinical outcomes.
Learn more about prostate screenings and treatments at Retreat Doctors' Hospital
Listen as our urologist discusses the importance of routine screenings for prostate cancer and the latest treatment options available.
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