Understanding Prostate Cancer.
Prostate cancer happens when cells in the prostate begin to grow
out of control and can then invade nearby tissues or spread
throughout the body. Prostate cancer remains the most commonly
diagnosed solid tumor in US men. The downward trend has
generally been consistent from the peak of 41,800 deaths
reported by the American Cancer Society in 1997. This mortality
statistic is worrisome; however, it is important to note that
more men die with prostate cancer than from prostate cancer.
You may find an excellent source of information about Prostate
Cancer at: www.cancernewsandi
nformation.com
As the cells multiply, they form a mass called a tumor. Tumors
are cancerous only if they are malignant. This means that they
encroach on and invade neighboring tissues because of their
uncontrolled growth. Early diagnoses can be made by screening
men for prostate cancer. Screening is done, as mentioned
previously, by routine yearly digital rectal examinations
beginning at age 40 and the addition of an annual PSA test
beginning at age 50. The purpose of the screening is to detect
early, tiny, or even microscopic cancers that are confined to
the prostate gland.
Early diagnoses can be made by screening men for prostate
cancer. Screening is done, as mentioned previously, by routine
yearly digital rectal examinations beginning at age 40 and the
addition of an annual PSA test beginning at age 50. The purpose
of the screening is to detect early, tiny, or even microscopic
cancers that are confined to the prostate gland.
Treatment for prostate cancer may vary according to the stage of
the cancer, this may include surgical removal, radiation,
chemotherapy, hormonal manipulation or a combination of these
treatments. The key to curing prostate cancer, however,
ultimately will come from an understanding of the genetic basis
of this disease. Genes, which are chemical compounds located on
the chromosomes, determine the characteristics of individuals.