- The prostate
is a gland in a man's reproductive system.
- Prostate cancer
is the second leading cause of cancer death in men.
- The following
may be symptoms of prostate cancer:
- Increased urgency to urinate.
- Weak or interrupted urine flow.
- Frequent urination, especially at night.
- Blood tinged urine.
- Pain or burning upon urination and pain in lower back,
pelvis, or thighs.
- Dripping or dribbling that is excessive.
- Feeling bladder is full but unable to urinate.
- The following
are risk factors associated with prostate cancer:
Age: In the United States, prostate cancer is found
mainly in men over age 55.
Family history: A man's risk for developing
prostate cancer is 2 times higher if his father or brother
has had the disease.
Race: African-Americans have an increased risk of
getting prostate cancer; often do not seek medical treatment
until the disease has progressed; and are twice as likely
to die from it than are white males.
Diet and dietary factors: A diet high in animal fat
may increase the risk of prostate cancer and a diet high
in fruits and vegetables may lessen the risk.
- A man who has
any of the risk factors should talk to his doctor about
testing for prostate cancer (even if he does not have any
symptoms). Medical testing and treatment is important because
survival approaches 100% if cancer is found before it spreads
outside the prostate gland.
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