Prostate Cancer: If this pain persists for weeks or months, especially increases at night, or is accompanied by numbness and tingling in the legs, then it could be a symptom of prostate cancer or spinal cord tumor.

Back pain has become a common problem these days. Many men complain of back pain due to sitting for hours at the office, improper posture, or lifting heavy objects. However, if this pain persists for a long time and doesn't improve with rest, it shouldn't be taken lightly. Several studies have shown that prolonged back pain in men may be a sign of prostate cancer or other serious diseases.

The connection between back pain and cancer

Back pain is often caused by issues like muscle strain, poor posture, or a slipped disc. If this pain persists for weeks or months, especially worsens at night, or is accompanied by numbness and tingling in the legs, it could be a symptom of prostate cancer or a spinal tumor. According to Dr. Harish Verma, senior surgical oncologist at Max Hospital in Delhi, prostate cancer cases are increasing in men. If back pain is accompanied by symptoms like difficulty urinating, bleeding, or weight loss, immediate testing should be done. According to a study published in The Lancet Oncology in 2025, 30 percent of prostate cancer patients experience back or lower back pain as an initial symptom. This pain occurs when cancer cells spread from the prostate gland to the bones, especially the spine. This is called metastatic prostate cancer.

What is prostate cancer and why does it occur?

The prostate is a small gland in men, located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. This gland helps in sperm production. Prostate cancer occurs when the cells of this gland grow uncontrollably. According to doctors, cases of prostate cancer are increasing in India due to tobacco, alcohol, and poor lifestyle. This risk is higher in men above 50 years of age. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology (2024), prostate cancer is becoming the second most common cancer among men in India. Pollution, stress and poor lifestyle in cities like Delhi are responsible for this. If not detected on time, this cancer can spread to the bones, causing symptoms like back pain.

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

The early symptoms of prostate cancer often seem benign, leading people to ignore them. Many patients experience back pain, which they mistake for a muscle problem and take painkillers. However, it's only when the pain persists that they seek medical attention. By then, the cancer may be in an advanced stage.

These are very common symptoms

• Long-term back or lower back pain, especially at night.
• Difficulties with urination, such as frequent urination, obstruction or burning sensation during urination.
• Blood in urine or blood in semen.
• Sudden weight loss and loss of appetite.
• Numbness or weakness in the legs if the cancer spreads to the spine.
• Changes in sexual function such as erectile dysfunction.