PROSTATE CANCER

THE PROSTATE The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located between the bladder and the penis. The prostate is just in front of the rectum. The prostate secretes fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. During ejaculation, the prostate squeezes this fluid into the urethra, and it’s expelled with sperm as semen.

INCIDENCE OF PROSTATE CANCER Estimated age-standardized rates (World) per 100,000

SYMPTOMPS OF PROSTATE CANCER So what are the warning signs of prostate cancer? Unfortunately, there usually aren’t any early warning signs for prostate cancer. The growing tumor does not push against anything to cause pain, so for many years the disease may be silent. That’s why screening for prostate cancer is such an important topic for all men and their families.

SYMPTOMPS OF PROSTATE CANCER In rare cases, prostate cancer can cause symptoms so you need to be aware of what they are: A need to urinate frequently, especially at night, some- times urgently Difficulty starting or holding back urination Weak, dribbling, or interrupted flow of urine Painful or burning urination Difficulty in having an erection A decrease in the amount of fluid ejaculated Painful ejaculation Blood in the urine or semen Pressure or pain in the rectum Pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, pelvis, or thighs

SCREENING FOR PROSTATE CANCER Two tests are commonly used to screen for prostate cancer— Digital rectal exam (DRE): A doctor or nurse inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to estimate the size of the prostate and feel for lumps or other abnormalities. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) test: Measures the level of PSA in the blood. PSA is a substance made by the prostate. The levels of PSA in the blood can be higher in men who have prostate cancer. The PSA level may also be elevated in other conditions that affect the prostate.

TREATMENTS FOR PROSTATE CANCER Depending on each case, treatment options for men with prostate cancer might include: Watchful waiting or active surveillance Surgery Radiation therapy Cryotherapy (cryosurgery) Hormone therapy Chemotherapy Vaccine treatment Bone-directed treatment