Understanding Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is a common form of cancer that occurs solely in men. The cancer, which can be lethal, is usually slow-growing and is often curable.
Here is a bit of information about prostate cancer to help you better understand it.
The Basics
The prostate is gland is located between the rectum and the bladder, adjacent to the tube that transports the urine to the outside of the body from the bladder. This tube is called the urethra. If the urethra becomes blocked, the urine flow slows or ceases.
A normal prostate gland is walnut-sized and does not impede the flow of urine. However, as the gland becomes enlarged from the cancer, it can place pressure on the urethra, resulting in a reduced urine flow. As a result, a primary symptom of this type of cancer is a change in urine output or flow.
Risk Factors of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is associated with a number of risk factors, such as the following:
- Age. Prostate cancer is more prevalent among older men.
- Family History. For some men, prostate cancer runs in their family.
- Diet. There are some indications that poor dietary choices can make a man more susceptible to developing prostate cancer.
- Race. African American males have a higher incidence of prostate cancer.
Second Opinions for Accurate Cancer Diagnosis
Even though a man may present some of the symptoms of prostate cancer, such as a reduction in urine flow, he may not have the disease. Other disorders, such as the benign enlargement of the prostate and the inflammation of the prostate gland, may also cause urinary issues. In addition, at its onset, cancer of the prostate may not present any symptoms.
Many initial tests that screen for prostate cancer are available. However, they are not fully conclusive. The tests often only indicate that prostate cancer is a possible diagnosis.
In order to confirm the presence of prostate cancer, additional tests may be required. Thus, a second opinion may be needed once an initial diagnosis is offered.
Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer can be treated surgically. However, there are also other treatment options, such as hormone and radiation therapy. Frequently, a combined approach to treatment is applied.
If you have symptoms of prostate cancer or would like a second opinion after an initial diagnosis, schedule an appointment with professionals like Advanced Urology Associates in your local area for more information.