Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that affects the prostate gland, a small walnut-sized organ located in the male reproductive system. It is the most common type of cancer in men in the United States, with an estimated 180,890 new cases diagnosed in 2020. The five-year relative survival rate for prostate cancer is 99%, meaning that 99% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer are alive five years after diagnosis.
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
There are a number of risk factors that can increase a man's chances of developing prostate cancer. These include age, race, family history, and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and smoking. Men over the age of 50 are at a higher risk, and African American men are at a higher risk than men of other races.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer often does not cause any symptoms in its early stages. However, as the cancer grows, symptoms may include difficulty urinating, frequent urination, pain or burning during urination, or blood in the urine or semen.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is usually diagnosed through a digital rectal exam (DRE), a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, or a biopsy. Treatment options for prostate cancer depend on the stage of the cancer, but may include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.
Living with Prostate Cancer
Living with prostate cancer can be difficult, but there are resources available to help. Support groups, counseling, and other forms of emotional and psychological support can help men cope with the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer.