Prostate Cancer Risk Factors and Symptoms

Prostate cancer is cancer that originates in the prostate gland, a male genital gland about the size of a walnut that is located in front of the rectum, behind the base of the penis, and under the bladder.

In most cases, prostate cancer grows slowly . Some prostate cancers are aggressive, spreading rapidly to other organs and the bones.

The risk of developing prostate cancer increases greatly with age . More than 80% of all prostate cancers are diagnosed in men over the age of 65. Apart from age, little is understood about what puts a man at risk for prostate cancer or what puts African Americans at higher risk of developing the disease. Also at higher risk are men who have a history of prostate cancer in close family members -- for example, a brother or father.

A high-fat diet is associated with an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

Other possible causes include:

High levels of male hormones
Lack of selenium
Lack of Vitamins E and/or D

Although there is no lifestyle guaranteed to prevent prostate cancer, it is recommended that all men take the following actions:

Learn more about prostate problems and how to treat them. Information sources include the HERC resource center, books, the Internet (click the "Book List" and "Resource Links" buttons at the top left of this window for some ideas), city/county health departments, organizations like HERC, and your own doctor.
Exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet that is low in fat.
Learn about foods that help fight cancer. For example, fresh fruits and dark leafy vegetables help fight cancer, especially tomatoes, which contain a substance called Lycopene. Lycopene, the mineral selenium, and Vitamin E all may lower the risk of prostate cancer.
Discuss regular testing for prostate cancer with your doctor.
Learn the symptoms of prostate cancer and other prostate problems.

The earlier prostate cancer is discovered, the better the chances that it can be treated effectively.

HERC advises you to schedule annual tests to screen for prostate cancer beginning at 40 if you are African American and/or have a family history of the disease. If you have no known risk factors, discuss testing with your doctor.

There are two tests commonly used to detect prostate cancer, the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test and the digital rectal exam (DRE) of the prostate gland.

Weaker or slower urine stream
Frequent or urgent urination, especially at night
Trouble with starting or stopping urine
Urinary tract infections
Blood in urine or semen

See a doctor if you have any of the above problems.

Note: There are no symptoms during the early stages of prostate cancer. The above symptoms can also be caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis , so an accurate diagnosis by a physician is essential.

There are several treatment choices available to men faced with prostate cancer. The most common are surgery, radiation, and hormone therapies. Receiving the right treatment is important and depends on the stage and trade of the disease as well as the age and general health of the individual. Before making a final decision about treatment, talk with a doctor about the risks and potential side effects related to each treatment option.

Participation in a support group can also be helpful in learning the pros and cons of each treatment choice.

Second opinions are commonly recommended before you begin treatment. A second (or even a third) opinion can help you learn more about treatment options and help you decide which medical team and approach is best for you.

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Symptoms and Information

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