Understanding Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a very common cancer diagnosis, and a cause of significant morbidity and mortality in the United States every year. In the United States, prostate cancer is by far the most common cancer diagnosis in men with an estimated 288,000 new cases in 2023. Unfortunately, there were also an estimated 34,000 deaths from prostate cancer in the US that year as well. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of male cancer death in the United States after lung cancer, so it is important to provide information about prostate cancer to those who could possibly be affected.

September is prostate cancer awareness month. The hope in sharing information about the prostate and risk factors for developing prostate cancer is that it will lead to early detection and better outcomes for those affected.

What is the Prostate?

The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland found only in males. The prostate surrounds the first inch or so of the urethra below the bladder. It plays a specialized role in the male reproductive system by producing seminal fluid, which helps to protect sperm. Although small and unassuming, the prostate can have a significant impact on a man’s overall health, especially as he ages.

Prostate Health and Cancer

As humans age, their cells are more likely to develop abnormal mutations, which can lead to cancer. The prostate gland is a common location of these genetic changes in men. Maintaining prostate health in particular is essential because issues with the prostate, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer, can lead to serious health problems.

The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. The disease often progresses slowly and goes unnoticed, but in some cases, it can be aggressive and life-threatening.
The symptoms of prostate cancer can include:

• frequent or weak urination
• urinary difficulty or straining
• urinary incontinence or “dribbling”
• pain when urinating or ejaculating
• blood in the urine or semen
• erectile dysfunction
• pain in the pelvis or lower back.

It is essential to remember that early stage prostate cancer generally has NO SYMPTOMS and is only diagnosed based on blood testing (PSA) and/or prostate exam.

What Causes Prostate Cancer?

Understanding the risk factors for prostate cancer can help men make informed decisions about their health. The exact cause of prostate cancer is not known, but several factors can increase the risk of developing the disease:

• Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases as men age. Most cases are diagnosed in men over 65.
• Family History: Men with a family history of prostate cancer are more likely to develop the disease. The risk is even higher if a direct family member (father, brother, or son) has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
• Ethnicity: African American men are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and are more likely to be diagnosed at an advanced stage.
• Genetics: Certain inherited genetic mutations can increase the risk of prostate cancer.
• Diet and Lifestyle: Consuming a lot of red meat and high-fat dairy products and not enough fruits and vegetables may increase the risk. Obesity and lack of exercise are also associated with a higher risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer.

If any of these risk factors apply to you, talk with your doctor and schedule a screening. For men with average risk, screenings are recommended at age 50. If you have heightened risk from any of the factors above, screenings may be recommended as early as age 40.

Prostate Cancer Treatment Options

There are many treatment options available to treat prostate cancer. Treatment is tailored to the patient's unique needs and health history. Treatment options may include:

Active Surveillance

For men with low-risk, slow-growing prostate cancer, doctors may recommend active surveillance. This approach involves regular monitoring of the cancer with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, digital rectal exams (DRE), and biopsies.

Surgery

Radical prostatectomy is a common surgical treatment for prostate cancer that removes the entire prostate gland. This option is often recommended for men with localized cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate.

Radiation Therapy

This treatment uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It can be delivered externally or internally by placing radioactive seeds in the prostate.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is a treatment method that reduces the levels of testosterone, which fuels the growth of prostate cancer cells. It is often used in combination with other treatments, especially in advanced cases.

Chemotherapy

In cases where prostate cancer has spread outside of the prostate and does not respond to hormone therapy, chemotherapy may be used to kill the cancer cells.

Schedule a Yearly Prostate Screening

Early detection is key to the successful treatment of prostate cancer. Detecting abnormalities early and treating them quickly minimizes the ability for the cancer to spread. Routine screening is recommended to start at age 50. If you have questions or concerns regarding prostate cancer and your risk factors, be sure to talk to your provider.

Dr. George F. Daniels is a board certified Urologist. He is currently accepting new patients in Butler.