Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among American men with an estimated 175,000 new cases diagnosed every year. It occurs mostly in older men, about 60% of new cases occur in patients who are 65 or older. Prostate cancer tends to grow slowly, which makes it easier to treat and manage. While it still claims the lives of 30,000 men annually, more than 2.5 million men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer are still alive today.
Major Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
• Age – Risk gradually increases as you age and jumps substantially after you turn 60.
• Family History – You are two to three times as likely to develop prostate cancer if your father, brother or son has it.
• Race – Prostate cancer is generally more common among black men. Asian men have a lower risk of it.
Prostate Cancer Symptoms
Early stage prostate cancer shows virtually no signs. As the cancer grows, however, you might notice the following symptoms:
• Problems urinating, such as a slow stream or going frequently at night
• Blood in your urine
• Trouble getting an erection
• Pain in the hips, back or chest
• Weakness or numbness in the legs or feet
Unfortunately, these symptoms also occur in several other diseases, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). If you notice them, you should alert your doctor to determine the cause and treatment if necessary.
Treating Prostate Cancer
There are a wide range of treatment options for prostate cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, cryosurgery and more. The best course of treatment depends on your age and circumstances. Be sure to fully discuss your options and situation with your doctor so you can both agree on an acceptable course of treatment. And it always pays to get a second opinion as well.
Recovering from Prostate Cancer
It’s important that your doctor continue to closely monitor you after treatment by sticking to your follow-up visits and discussing any symptoms that develop. Prostate cancer can recur many years after the initial case, so it’s important that you manage your health responsibly.
Sources
American Cancer Society
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
Prostate Cancer Foundation
