Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer develops when abnormal cells form and grow in the prostate gland to form a cancerous (malignant) tumor.

Causes

Although the cause of prostate cancer is unknown, the following factors increase cancer risk:

Age — Prostate cancer is more likely to occur in men older than 55.
Ethnicity — One in six Black American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. It occurs less often in Asian American and Hispanic/Latino men than in non-Hispanic White men.
Family History — Men who have a grandfather, father or brother diagnosed with the disease are more likely to develop the disease themselves. Also, having family members with breast and ovarian cancer increases one’s prostate cancer risk.
Weight — Being overweight in your 50s and later increases your risk of prostate cancer.

Symptoms

Sometimes there are no symptoms, but talk with your doctor if you experience any of the following:

Dull pain in the lower pelvic zone
Frequent need to pass urine
Trouble passing urine, pain, burning or weak urine flow
Blood in the urine (hematuria)
Painful ejaculation
Pain in the lower back, hips or upper thighs
Loss of hunger
Loss of weight
Bone pain

Diagnosis

Your doctor may advise screenings to include blood tests and a digital rectal exam.

Discuss screening options with your doctor if you …

Are between 55 and 69 years old.
Are a Black male.
Have a family history of prostate cancer.
Have symptoms.

A prostate biopsy may be performed if screening tests show an issue with the prostate. During a biopsy, a tissue sample is taken from your prostate or other organs to look for cancer cells.

Treatment

If you receive a cancer diagnosis, treatments may include surgery and radiation therapy. Discuss the best options for you with your doctor based on the following considerations:

The stage and grade of the cancer
Your risk category (low-, intermediate- or high-risk)
Your age and health
Side effects and long-term effects of treatment
Your treatment goals
Results from other diagnostic tests