Prostate Cancer

What is the prostate?

The prostate is a walnut sized gland found between the bladder and the penis. Prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate gland begins to grow out of control.

Facts

The most common type of cancer in men.

The chance of developing prostate cancer increases as men ages.

The risk of developing prostate cancer is higher in black men than men of other races.

Black men are twice more likely to die from prostate cancer as it tends to be more severe.

Routine prostate screening can help with early detection and as a result, prevent cancer from spreading.

Symptoms

Advanced Stage

Trouble starting urination

Weak urine flow

Need to urinate often, especially at night time

Bladder not emptying completely

Pain or burning while urinating

Blood in the urine or semen

Painful ejaculation

When It Has Spread

Bone and back pain

Unexplained weight loss

Pain in the testicles

Loss of appetite

Extreme tiredness

Risk for Prostate Cancer

**Obesity-** having a waist size of 37 inches and more

**Family History** -having a father or brother who was diagnosed with the diseases before the age of 60

Screenings for Prostate Cancer

Prostate Cancer Antigen Gene 3 (PCA3)– a urine test used to determine your risk of cancer.

Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)- a blood test that is used to detect prostate cancer.

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)- a doctor uses a gloved, lubricated finger in the rectum to feel for any lump or hard areas on the prostrate.

Men with more than one close family member who had prostate cancer before 65 should begin screening at age 40. Men whose father or brother was diagnosed, should begin screening at 45.

Men with normal PSA levels must be screened every 2 years. While men with abnormal PSA levels must be screened yearly.

If you are at risk for prostate cancer talk to a doctor about the type of screening that will be right for you