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Prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate gland start to grow out of control. The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men and people assigned male at birth. It makes some of the fluid that is part of semen.
1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. However, each person's risk can vary based on age, race and ethnicity, and a few other factors. According to The American Cancer Society, the estimated new cases for prostate cancer in the United States for 2024 are more than 200,000.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is a disease in which cancerous cells form in the tissues of the prostate. Some prostate cancers can grow and spread quickly, but most are slow-growing.
Fortunately, prostate cancer is easily detected and typically gets diagnosed before it spreads beyond the prostate gland. At an early stage, prostate cancer is highly treatable. The most common symptoms to look out for are frequent urination and weakened urine flow.
Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
There are several signs and symptoms of prostate cancer so if you notice several of these symptoms and you're concerned, we suggest talking to your doctor.
- Frequent, sometimes urgent, need to urinate
- Weak urine flow that starts and stops
- Pain or burning when you pee
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Painful ejaculation
- Pain in your lower back, hip, or chest
The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age. Men under 40 are at the lowest risk. After 50, the risk rises rapidly. About 60% of all prostate cancer cases are found in men over the age of 65. The average age of a diagnosis is 67.
We hope you found this blog from PatientsLikeMe helpful. You can find more information and tips about prostate cancer here. Be sure to stop by for more advice and questions. We're here to support you!