Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in men. This year, an estimated 198,100 men in the United States — 3,700 in Maryland — will be diagnosed with this deadly disease.*

Cancer of the prostate develops as men get older. More than 80 percent of all prostate cancers are diagnosed in men over age 65. Some studies even show that all men who live long enough will eventually get prostate cancer. Fortunately, early detection greatly increases a man’s chance for survival. That’s why doctors recommend yearly checkups for men beginning at age 40.

Risk Factors
In the United States, the incidence rate of prostate cancer is 66 percent higher and the death rate two times higher for African-American men than for white men. It is unknown whether the risk factors are genetic or environmental. Familial tendency, dietary fat and aging increases the risk for all men.*

Are you at risk for prostate cancer?

Symptoms
Early prostate cancer does not cause pain. In fact, prostate cancer in its early stages has few, if any, symptoms. It is a slow-growing but deadly disease. When symptoms do occur they may include the following:

• weak or interrupted stream of urine
• difficulty starting urination>
• inability to urinate
• frequent urination, especially at night
• difficulty holding back urination
• painful or burning urination
• bloody urine or semen
• painful ejaculation
• difficulty achieving an erection
• swollen lymph nodes in groin
• frequent discomfort in pelvis, lower back, upper thighs, hips

These symptoms can also be caused by benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), infection, or other less serious problems. While seldom life-threatening, BPH does cause the prostate to enlarge. When the prostate grows large enough to push against the urethra and bladder, it will block the normal flow of urine and may require treatment to relieve symptoms. It is important that a doctor evaluate all symptoms. Request an appointment with a MedStar Good Samaritan cancer specialist.

For information about prostate screenings or to find a doctor, please call MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital at 443-444-4100.

*Source: American Cancer Society

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