Prostate Cancer
Overview
Only men can develop prostate cancer. The prostate is a glandular organ that produces seminal fluid. Cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow and multiply out of control, eventually forming as a mass or tumor that invades surrounding tissue and steals oxygen and nutrients from healthy cells, hampering their ability to normally function.
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men – about 1 in 6 men will be diagnosed. Though older men are more prone to prostate cancer, it can affect men at any age. The American Cancer Society recommends that men with average risk begin getting screened for prostate cancer at the age of 50.
Risk Factors
Most risk factors associated with prostate cancer are out of your control, but some are not. The cause of Prostate Cancer is largely unknown, though hormonal, genetic, environmental and dietary factors are thought to play a role.
- Increasing age
- Race African American
- Family history
- Obesity
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Chemical exposure (such as cadmium)
Symptoms & Signs
Most men with prostate cancer have no signs or symptoms, especially in its early stages. This makes early detection difficult. Prostate cancer that is more advanced may cause signs and symptoms due to some degree of urinary blockage.
- Diminished urinary stream
- More frequent urination
- Pain while urinating
- Blood in the urine
- Painful urination
- Painful ejaculation
- Impotence
- Urinary tract infections
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
Diagnostic Tests & Services
Prostate cancer detected early — when it’s still confined to the prostate gland — has a better chance of successful treatment. If your physician suspects prostate cancer, you may be given diagnostic tests. Tests help doctors diagnose the stage of prostate cancer, which largely determines the patient’s treatment plan.
- Digital rectal exam
- Biopsy
- Blood tests
- Ultrasound
- CT scan
- MRI
- Chest X-ray
- Ultrasound
- Cystoscopy
Treatment
Our compassionate oncology team strives not only to give the best patient care, but also extraordinary patient support. We work together with patients to decide the best treatment plan, which are customized to fit the patient’s age, overall health and stage of prostate cancer.
- Medications
- Freezing
- Surgery
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone Suppression Therapy
