Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer, the second most common cancer in men after lung cancer, is a slow growing that usually develops over years. Most men who have it will never know they have it. It occurs in the prostate, which is a small, walnut-sized gland that is part of the male reproductive system. The prostate gland lies below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It produces seminal fluid, which helps transport sperm during ejaculation.
Some types of prostate cancer can grow quickly and spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones or lymph nodes. This is more likely to happen if the cancer has a high grade (meaning it looks more abnormal under a microscope). The risk of developing this cancer increases with age. African-American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer are at greater risk. 1 million men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year. The lifetime risk of getting prostate cancer is about 1 in 7, and the risk of dying from the disease is about 1 in 36.
The cause of prostate cancer is unknown, but it is thought to be linked to hormone imbalances and family history. A new study has found that men with prostate cancer may be more likely to die from the disease if they have higher levels of a certain protein in their blood. The protein, known as PSA, is produced by the prostate gland and is often used to screen for prostate cancer. However, the new study suggests that PSA levels may also be a marker for how aggressive the disease is. The study’s authors say that more research is needed to confirm their findings, but they believe that men with higher PSA levels should be monitored closely and treated aggressively.
There are multiple treatment options for prostate cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. Your doctor will work with you to choose the best treatment for you based on your age, health, and the stage of your cancer.