Basics of Prostate Cancer

Many men just don't like talking about prostate cancer but it's a very important topic since it's potentially fatal. But lives can be saved if it is diagnosed and treated early.

To understand more about this disease, it's helpful to know what the prostate gland is, what it does, how it works and how cancer can affect it.

What is Prostate Cancer?

The prostate is a gland located between the bladder and the penis and in front of the rectum in men. It is typically described as about the size of a walnut. The urethra passes through the center of the prostate. When cancer grows in this area it can damage the small and sensitive nerves and blood vessels that surround the prostate.

Prostate cancer typically grows slowly. Many men will have it for a long time and don't even know it. It could be years before it reaches a stage that is detectable. But there are exceptions to this rule, as there is with nearly all types of cancer.

You may be surprised to know that prostate cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in the world. In the United States, it is the more frequently diagnosed, non-skin cancer. The prostate is the second leading cause of cancer death of men in America. Only lung cancer fatality rates are higher.

It is estimated that around 15% of men in the United States will develop prostate cancer at some time in their life. Statistics show that more than 200,000 men are diagnosed each year. Statistics also show that about 30,000 will die from it annually.

Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer

Typically, there are no early signs or symptoms. The best way to detect a problem is through regular screening tests and a digital rectal exam.

A PSA blood test may also be helpful. This test works by measuring the enzymes which are produced in the prostate. These enzymes are found in the seminal fluid and in the bloodstream. An elevated level is an indication there is something wrong. It doesn't always mean cancer, however. It could mean that the prostate is infected or that there are other prostate conditions that need to be looked into further.

A high level, often considered to be 4.o or higher will usually cause your physician to suggest a biopsy to rule out cancer and to see what is happening in the prostate. While most doctors think the PSA test is a useful tool in screening, they also agreed that it is an imperfect one.

That's because a man can have prostate cancer and still have a healthy PSA screen. This is because cancer can sometimes be present without elevating the enzymes. A digital rectum exam is also performed with a PSA test and this can help feel the area of the prostate where most cancers occur.

With the digital exam, the doctor can check for growths, bumps and other irregularities. In addition to these common screening techniques, doctors may also use:

• Biopsy
• Ultrasound scans
• X rays

Once the positive identification is determined, you can talk with your doctor about treatment options.

Prostate Cancer Symptoms

In some cases, symptoms are detectable after the cancer has progressed. It's important to be aware of the following symptoms so you can consult your doctor if you have them.

• Blood in urine or semen
• Difficulty in achieving an erection
• Difficulty starting urination or holding back urine
• Feeling the need to urinate frequently, especially at night
• Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs
• Pain or a burning sensation while urinating
• Painful ejaculation
• Weak or interrupted flow of urine

Many men are afraid to contact their doctor due to the sensitive nature of the prostate but it is important not to let this go unchecked. Any man over the age of 50 who has not yet had an exam should get one.

There are some risk factors that can increase your chances of developing prostate cancer. These include age, race and family history. Diet and even environmental factors can also play a role so it's important to learn as much as you can about prostate health and how you can lower your risks.