Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer refers to cancer that develops in the prostate, a gland in the reproductive system of men, so this disease is restricted to males. Prostate cancers occur when tissues in the prostate mutate and divide uncontrollably. Prostate cancer can spread to different parts of the body, mainly the bones and lymph nodes. Cancer in the prostate can affect a man reproductive system causing pain and difficulty urinating. It can also cause erectile dysfunction.

Prostate cancer is a growing epidemic in the United States. It is the second most leading cause of cancer deaths, only surpassed by lung cancer.

Men over the age of fifty are at higher risk to develop prostate cancer. Diet and genetics are said to be factor that increase the chances of developing this cancer.

Prostate cancer can be treated by surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. Several factors that can affect how the treatment is administered and the outcome of the treatment are the age and health of the patient, the progression of the disease and response to treatment.

Symptoms might not be noticeable in the early stages of prostate cancer, but as the disease progress symptoms might become more noteworthy. Problems with sexual functions are very common, such as difficulty getting and maintaining an erection. Men will also face difficulty with their urinary functions.

Some medication and vitamins can help to prevent this cancer. Researches have shown that several other factors, such as frequent masturbation, can lower the risk of prostate cancer. Research even suggests a healthy, well balanced fiber rich diet and a reduction in meat intake can also reduce the risk of prostate cancer.