The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2000 about 180,400 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the United States and 31,000 men will die from the disease. Today, more and more men in their 40 s and 50 s are being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Some are being diagnosed as early as in their 30 s, but the majority of all cases occur in men over age 60. For reasons that are not clearly understood, the incidence rate is significantly greater for African-American. African-American men die of prostate cancer at twice the rate of Caucasian men.
Prostate cancer is most curable when it is detected early.
The American Cancer Society also suggests a PSA blood test, for men age 50 and older and for men with a family history of prostate cancer or breast cancer as well as all African-American men PSA testing starting at age 45. Some prostate cancers can grow and spread quickly, especially in younger men. Elevated levels of PSA may indicate a need for additional follow-up. The prostate gland is about the size of a walnut and is located in front of the rectum, behind the base of the penis, and under the bladder. It is found only in men, and produces some of the seminal fluid, which protects and nourishes sperm cells.