My father died of prostrate cancer and I have been told that as his son, I stand the risk of having the same disease.  I will therefore appreciate it if you could tell me all I need to know about this dreadful disease.  Thanks

Salami (E-mail)

Prostrate cancer is cancer that originates in the prostrate gland, a male gland about the size of a walnut that is located in front of the rectum, behind the base of the penis, and under the bladder.  Because of its location, a doctor can directly examine the part of the gland where most tumors occur.

The risk of developing prostrate cancer increases with age.  More than 75% of all prostrate cancers are diagnosed in men over the age of 65.  It is also true that people like you who are men with a history of the disease in close family members are highly susceptible.  Also associated with the disease is a high-fat diet.  It is therefore believed that a low-fat diet, high fibre diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables is recommended to lower this risk for many types of cancer, and can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes as well.

When prostrate cancer is in its earliest stages, it usually causes no pain or other symptoms.  Occasionally, men with early prostrate cancer experience difficulty when urinating.

Since the disease has no cure, early detection is the best defence.  Fortunately, there are two tests commonly used to defect the disease, namely the PSA (Prostrate-Specific Antigen) and the Digital Rectal Examination (DRE).  If both tests suggest the presence of the cancer, the doctor may order for further tests including a biopsy whereby samples of the prostrate tissue are removed and examined in the laboratory.  The results of the biopsy will determine the type of treatment that the individual will require.  This will vary from Surgery, Radiation Therapy, Hormone Therapy or the use of powerful anti-cancer drugs