Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the prostate gland, which is located just below the bladder in men.

It is the second most common cancer among men worldwide, and it is estimated that there will be around 191,930 new cases of prostate cancer in the United States alone in 2020, according to the American Cancer Society.

What causes prostate cancer?

The exact causes of prostate cancer are not yet known. However, some factors may increase a man’s risk of developing this disease, including:.

Age: The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age, with most cases being diagnosed in men over the age of 50.
Family history: Men who have a family history of prostate cancer are more likely to develop the disease themselves.
Race: African American men are more likely to develop prostate cancer, while Asian men have a lower risk of developing the disease.
Diet: A diet high in red meat or high-fat dairy products may increase the risk of prostate cancer.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese may increase the risk of developing advanced prostate cancer.

Symptoms of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer may not always cause symptoms in its early stages. However, some men may experience the following symptoms:.

Difficulty or pain while urinating
Weak urine flow
Blood in the urine or semen
Frequent urination, especially at night
Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis
Erectile dysfunction

Screening for prostate cancer

Screening tests for prostate cancer include:.

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test: This test measures the level of PSA in the blood, which is a protein produced by the prostate gland. High levels of PSA may indicate the presence of prostate cancer.
Digital rectal exam (DRE): This exam involves a doctor inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland for abnormalities.

It is recommended that men discuss the benefits and potential risks of screening with their healthcare provider, as the ideal screening schedule may vary based on individual risk factors and preferences.

Treatment for prostate cancer

Treatment options for prostate cancer depend on the stage and severity of the disease, as well as the man’s overall health and personal preferences. Some common treatment options include:.

Active surveillance: In some cases, a doctor may recommend monitoring the cancer closely without immediately treating it, especially if it is slow-growing or low-risk.
Surgery: Surgery to remove the prostate gland, called a prostatectomy, may be recommended for some men with prostate cancer.
Radiation therapy: This treatment option uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells.
Hormone therapy: Some medications may be used to lower the levels of male hormones that can fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Preventing prostate cancer

Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, some lifestyle changes may reduce the risk of developing the disease:.

Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limit consumption of red meat and high-fat dairy products.
Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Limit alcohol consumption.
Quit smoking.

Conclusion

Prostate cancer is a growing concern for men, but with regular screening and healthy lifestyle choices, it is possible to reduce the risk of developing this disease.

If you are a man over the age of 50, talk to your healthcare provider about your risk for prostate cancer and the screening options that may be right for you.