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What Is Prostate Cancer?1, 3
The prostate is a part of the male reproductive system and is located right below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate's most important function is producing a fluid which, together with sperms cells and fluids from other glands, make up semen. The prostate's muscle also helps move the seminal fluid into the urethra during ejaculation.
As men age, the prostate may get bigger. This could cause problems with urination. This does not mean there is cancer, but men are encouraged to speak with their medical provider if they have any concerns.
Prostate cancer is a disease in which cells in the prostate grow out of control. It is the second most common cause of cancer death among men in the United States. Prostate cancer is usually found early and often grows slowly so most people are able to get treated and cured so it is important to get screened regularly.
What Are Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer?3
- Older age. The risk of prostate cancer goes up with age and is most common after the age of 50.
- Race and ethnicity. In the U.S., Black people have a greater risk of prostate cancer than people of other races/ethnicities. In Black people, prostate cancer is more likely to grow quickly or be at an advanced stage when detected.
- Family history of prostate cancer. If a relative, such as a parent or sibling, has been diagnosed with
prostate cancer, your risk may increase. The risk can also increase if other relatives
(e.g., grandparents, uncles, brothers) have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
- Family history of DNA changes. Some DNA changes that increase the risk of cancer are passed from parents to children. The DNA changes called BRCA1 and BRCA2 can cause a higher risk of prostate cancer.
- Obesity. People who are obese may have a higher risk of prostate cancer compared to others who are at healthy weight. In people with obesity, prostate cancer is more likely to grow quickly and more likely come back after treatment.
- Smoking tobacco. Some research shows a correlation between smoking and prostate cancer, however, there still needs to be more studies conducted on the full effects of smoking tobacco and prostate cancer. People with prostate cancer who smoke may have a higher risk of the cancer coming people as well as having a higher risk of the cancer spreading to other parts of the body.
What Are Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?2 
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted flow of urine
- Urinating often, especially at night
- Trouble emptying the bladder completely
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn't go away
- Painful ejaculation
What Are Prostate Cancer Screening Guidelines?4
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends:
- Men who are 55 to 69 years old should speak with their health care provider
and together decide whether or not it is best for them to be screened for prostate cancer with periodic prostate specific antigen (PSA) test. - To help in this individualized decision, men and their health care provider should consider the benefits and harms on the basis of family history, race/ethnicity, comorbid medical conditions, patient values about the benefits and harms of screening and treatment-specific outcomes, and other health needs.
- Men who are 70 years old and older should not be screened for prostate cancer.
- This recommendation applies to men who:
- Are at average risk or at increased risk for prostate cancer.
- Do not have symptoms of prostate cancer.
- Have never been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
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For More Information
2025 Prostate Cancer Resource Toolkit
Prostate Cancer Awareness Release Template Example
Letter to TV and Radio Managers Template Example
Talking with your Patients about Prostate Cancer
Infographic Take Your Time
Infographics for Prostate Cancer Toolkit
