1. What is prostate cancer?
Answer:
Prostate cancer is a disease in which cells in the prostate gland (a small gland in men that produces seminal fluid) grow uncontrollably. It’s one of the most common cancers in men, especially those over age 50.
2. What are the common symptoms of prostate cancer?
Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Weak urine flow
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis
However, these symptoms can also occur with non-cancerous prostate conditions, like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
3. Who is at risk for prostate cancer?
Answer:
Risk increases with:
- Age: Most cases occur after age 50
- Family history: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer
- Race: African American men have a higher risk
- Diet: High-fat diets and obesity may also raise risk
4. How is prostate cancer diagnosed?
Answer:
Diagnosis usually involves:
- PSA blood test: Measures prostate-specific antigen levels
- Digital rectal exam (DRE): Doctor checks for prostate abnormalities
- Biopsy: Confirms cancer by examining prostate tissue under a microscope
- Imaging tests (MRI, CT, or bone scan) may be used to determine if the cancer has spread.
5. What does the PSA test show?
Answer:
The PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test measures a protein made by the prostate. High levels may suggest cancer, but can also result from infection, inflammation, or an enlarged prostate. It’s a helpful tool but not a definitive test for cancer.
