Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men—but lung cancer is deadlier.

• Prostate cancer is rare before age 50.
• Prostate cancer is usually slow growing. The American Cancer Society reports that if the cancer is found before it spreads to the tissue around the prostate, there is a 100% survival rate of 5 years.This rate decreases to 31% if the cancer has metastasized. (“Metastasize” means the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.)
• Prostate cancer can spread outside the prostate and into the surrounding organs.It can also spread to the lymphatic system and the bones.
• There are two ways to screen for prostate cancer:the PSA blood test and the digital rectal exam.Most cases of prostate cancer are found during a rectal exam.

How is PROSTATE Cancer treated?

• If the cancer is at an early stage and the client is elderly, the doctor may decide to just watch the progress of the disease.This is known as “Watchful Waiting.”
• Surgery is usually done to remove the prostate.A radical prostatectomy can cause incontinence and/or nerve damage.
• Cryosurgery (freezing the tumor) may also be performed—it may damage nerves, too.
• Both internal and external radiation are also used to treat prostate cancer.
• Hormone therapy may be used if the cancer has spread.  Male hormones are blocked since they can contribute to the cancer’s spread.
• Chemotherapy is usually used at a late stage in the disease.

Are there any symptoms?

Prostate cancer is known as a “silent” disease.  It can occur without any symptoms at all.  In rare cases, some men may experience:

• More frequent urine, especially at night.
• Difficulty starting or holding back urination.
• Weak, dribbling, or interrupted flow of urine.
• Painful or burning urination.
• Blood in the urine or semen.
• Pressure or pain in the rectum.
• Pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, pelvis, or thighs.