subject: Understanding Prostate Cancer [print this page] Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer among males and a serious health concern in the U.S. and abroad.
What is it?
Prostate cancer starts in the prostate, a small gland that makes up part of the male reproductive system. Although this form of cancer originates in the prostate, it may slowly spread to other parts of the body--particularly to lymph nodes and bones. It is the most common form of cancer-related death in men over the age of 75 and is extremely rare in men under the age of 40. Cancer that is detected early has a better chance of effective treatment, but it is not always detected and not always fatal. In many cases it goes undetected until death by unrelated causes.
How Prevalent is it?
About 1 out of every 6 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in his life. Death rates from this type of cancer are drastically loweronly about 1 in every 36 men. It is the sixth most common cancer-related cause of death among men worldwide. It is second in the U.S. this type of cancer detection rates are higher in the U.S. and Europe than in South and East Asia. Some experts believe that dietary differences are a contributing factor. There are approximately 28,000 new cases of this form of cancer each year and near 30,000 deaths in the U.S. alone.
Who is at High Risk for developing it?
There are several groups that have been detected that have an increased disposition to developing prostate cancer. African American men, men over the age of 50, and those with a history of cancer in their families are most likely to develop prostate cancer. Other people at risk include men who drink too much alcohol, those who eat diets high in fat, painters, farmers, and tire plant workers.
What can be done to Reduce Risk?
Implementing a low-fat diet that is high in omega-3 fatty acids will reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Regularly scheduled physical examinations, especially among older men, will greatly increase the chance of early detection. PSA blood tests are often helpful to detect this form of cancer before the emergence of any symptoms.
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