What is Prostate Cancer?

The prostate is a gland the size of a walnut that is found within the male reproductive system. The role of the prostate gland is to make and store seminal fluid. Prostate cancer is a form of cancer involving a growth that originates in the prostate region. It can begin as tumor cells in the prostate area and spread to other parts of the body, including the bones and lymph nodes. If allowed to spread to this level, prostate cancer is fatal.

Prostate cancer most commonly occurs in men over 50 years old. Signs of prostate cancer include difficulty with urination, pain, mild impotence, and blood in the urine. During the early stages of prostate cancer, however, there are usually no warning signs or symptoms. Fortunately, a physician can easily diagnose prostate cancer during its early stages with a routine prostate checkup. This checkup consists of a rectal exam and a prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test.

Prostate cancer begins when prostate gland cells change into cancer cells. The small amount of cancer cells found in the prostate begin to multiply and eventually spread. These cells spread to the prostate tissue, where a tumor is formed.

There are many factors contributing to prostate cancer. Age is one factor, as is genetics. If one family member has or had prostate cancer, it is likely another male relative will also develop it.

A man’s diet is another potential risk factor for prostate cancer. Lack of vitamin E, in particular, appears to increase the risk of prostate cancer. Vitamin E is usually found in green vegetables, tomatoes, and some seafood. Low blood levels of Vitamin D may also lead to high prostate cancer risk.

On the other hand, regular intake of aspirin, ibuprofen, and other anti-inflammatory medications can decrease the risk of prostate cancer. Drugs aimed at lowering cholesterol levels have also shown promise in their ability to lower prostate cancer risk.