Prostate Cancer

Overview

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, excluding skin cancer. About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. The American Cancer Society estimates that 299,010 new cases of prostate cancer and 35,250 deaths related to prostate cancer are expected to occur in the United States in 2024. Prostate cancer can be a serious disease, but most men who are diagnosed do not die from it. Statistics show that more than 3.3 million men in the U.S. who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in life are still alive today. All men are at risk for prostate cancer. However, prostate cancer is more likely to develop in older men and men of African American ancestry. Family history is another factor that increases cancer risk.

Prostate cancer develops when there is an out-of-control growth of cells in the prostate. Prostate cancer tends to grow slowly compared with most other cancers. The prostate is a gland that is part of the male reproductive system. The prostate is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine flows, and makes part of the seminal fluid. In younger men, the prostate is about the size of a walnut. As men age the prostate tends to increase in size. If the prostate grows too large, it squeezes the urethra which may narrow and decrease urine flow. Although men may experience prostate changes, that does not necessarily indicate prostate cancer. In fact, some prostate conditions have similar symptoms but are not linked to cancer. Most men do not have symptoms of prostate cancer until the disease has already advanced. It is important that men talk to a doctor about any signs of prostate changes.

For information about prostate cancer screening, including a list of free screenings near you, visit Prostate Screenings.

Risk Factors

Although medical experts do not exactly know what causes prostate cancer or how to prevent it, research has shown that each man's risk of prostate cancer can vary based on his age, race/ethnicity, and other factors.

The discussion about screening should take place with your healthcare provider at:

• Age 50 for men who are at average risk of prostate cancer and are expected to live at least 10 more years. 

• Age 45 for men who are at high risk of developing prostate cancer. This includes African American men and men who have a first-degree relative (father or brother) diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age (younger than age 65).

• Age 40 for men at even higher risk (those with more than one first-degree relative who had prostate cancer at an early age).

Lowering Risk

Although there is no sure way to prevent prostate cancer, there may be some things you can do to lower your risk:

• Maintain a healthy weight & be physically active.
• Increase intake of fruits and vegetables.
• Don't smoke & limit alcohol consumption.
• Stay sexually active.

Recommendations for Prostate Cancer Screenings

Men who are 50 years of age or older, at average risk of prostate cancer, and have a life expectancy of at least 10 years should talk to their doctor about prostate cancer screening and treatment options. Men who are at an even higher risk for prostate cancer are encouraged to begin screening at age 40. Healthcare providers should discuss with patients the benefits and limitations of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing to encourage informed decision-making about whether to be tested based on the personal values and preferences of the patient. The digital rectal exam (DRE) may also be done as a part of screening. See the latest USPSTF recommendations on prostate cancer screening.

Talk to Someone about Prostate Cancer Simulation

Talk to Nathan is a virtual human simulation developed to help men get a better understanding of prostate health, prostate cancer risks, and screening and treatment options.

Additional Resources

• CDC "Should I get tested for Prostate Cancer?"
• CDC Prostate Cancer