Each year, more than 120,000 new cases of prostate cancer occur in the U.S., and more than 30,000 deaths are caused annually by this disease. Every man over age 40 should know that he is at risk for prostate cancer. African Americans have the highest risk of developing this disease. Having a father or brother with prostate cancer also greatly increases a man's likelihood of developing it. In addition, studies have shown that a diet high in fat may contribute to the development of this cancer.
Most prostate cancers begin in the outer part of the prostate.
The cancer must grow fairly large before it presses on the urethra and interferes with urination. In the early stages, prostate cancer is curable. With prompt treatment, the percentage of men who survive longer than 10 years is roughly equal to that of men who have never had prostate cancer. If prostate cancer is allowed to develop without treatment, it may spread to other organs, causing disability and sometimes death. Advanced prostate cancer is more likely to cause symptoms, which may lead a man to see a doctor for diagnosis.