If you, or a loved one, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer you may be experiencing fear, anxiety and confusion on the treatment option that is right for you. Fortunately with increased awareness of prostate cancer screening physicians can now successfully treat and cure prostate cancer in its early stages.


What is the Prostate?

The prostate is the gland in the male reproductive system. The primary function of the gland is to produce fluid for semen.

The prostate is made up of about 30% muscular tissue, with the rest consisting of glandular tissue. It is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate wraps around the urethra, which is a tube that carries urine from the bladder to the tip of the penis

The prostate is normally about the same size and shape as a chestnut. However, as men get older the prostate may begin to increase in size.



What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is a group of cancerous cells, or a malignant tumor, that usually begins along the outer part of the prostate. Early prostate cancer normally does not accompany any symptoms, however, as the cancer spreads, symptoms may become more likely.



What Causes Prostate Cancer?

The exact cause of prostate cancer has not yet been determined, although researchers have identified several risk factors that may contribute to the increased likelihood of the disease. These factors include family history, genetics and environment.

What are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

The early stages of prostate cancer may not cause any symptoms. However, some men in the early stages, or as the prostate cancer spreads, may experience some symptoms which may include:

Who Gets Prostate Cancer?

In the United States, prostate cancer is the leading cancer found among men (excluding skin cancer). More than 70% of prostate cancer cases are found in men over the age of 65.