Oncology

Prostate Cancer

What is Prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is cancer that occurs in the prostate. It is one of the most common types of cancer in men. Prostate cancer grows slowly and is initially confined to the prostate gland (where it may not cause serious harm). Some types of prostate cancer may grow at delayed rate and may not require as much treatment whereas others may grow at a rapid and aggressive rate. If prostate cancer is confined to the prostate gland, it has a better chance of successful treatment.

Who is impacted?

Factors that increase risk of developing prostate cancer:

• Age - risk is increased as your age is increased.
• Race - black men carry the highest risk of prostate cancer compared to other races; it also seems to be more aggressive and advanced.
• Family history
• Obesity

How is Prostate cancer diagnosed?

Prostate cancer screening is typically done with a digital rectal exam (DRE) or Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test.

If a DRE or PSA test was done and an abnormality was detected, further tests are done to determine if prostate cancer is a probable diagnosis:

• Ultrasound
• Collecting a sample of prostate tissue
• MRI fusion

How is Prostate cancer treated?

Prostate cancer treatment depends on how aggressive the cancer is, the person’s overall health and potential benefits or side effects of the treatment.

Possible treatment options:

• Radiation therapy
• Hormone therapy
• Freezing prostate tissue
• Chemotherapy
• Biological therapy