Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the prostate, a small walnut-shaped gland in men that produces seminal fluid. Here are some key points about prostate cancer: Risk Factors Age: Risk increases with age, particularly after 50. Family History: A family history of prostate cancer can increase risk. Race: African American men have a higher risk compared to men of other races. Diet: High-fat diets and obesity may contribute to risk. Symptoms In its early stages, prostate cancer may cause no symptoms. In more advanced stages, symptoms can include: Difficulty urinating Decreased force in the stream of urine Blood in the urine or semen Bone pain Erectile dysfunction Diagnosis Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A doctor manually examines the prostate through the rectum. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Measures the level of PSA in the blood, with higher levels suggesting the presence of cancer. Biopsy: Removal of a small tissue sample for laboratory examination. Treatment Options Watchful Waiting or Active Surveillance: Monitoring the cancer closely and choosing to intervene if it progresses. Surgery: Removing the prostate gland (prostatectomy). Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. Hormone Therapy: Lowering levels of testosterone that cancer cells need to grow. Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill rapidly growing cells. Immunotherapy: Helping the immune system fight cancer.
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