Prostate Cancer

Prostate Cancer is a condition in which the regulation of cell growth is lost, and cells grow uncontrollably within the prostate, creating tumors. Cancer cells differ from regular, healthy cells in that they are no longer well-regulated, and continue to reproduce irregular cells after the point which the cells should have died. Prostate cancer is typically characterized by a number of small 'primary' (original site) tumors within the prostate. If detected early, treatment at this stage is highly effective, with recovery rates of 90% or better. However, symptoms are few and difficult to detect. Prostate cancer is a relatively slow cancer, typically taking a number of years before presenting symptoms that are detectable, and longer still to spread. However, rapid, aggressive cases do occur. If metastasis (the spreading of cancer cells) occurs due to a lack of treatment, the cells are carried through the lymphatic system and the bloodstream to other parts of the body. Cells then lodge in other parts and grow to create secondary tumors. Cure rates drop at this point, however treatments such as surgery and radiation may still be used, as with earlier detected cases. Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin related cancer in America, affecting 1 in 6 men. Men are 35% more likely to develop prostate cancer than a woman is to develop breast cancer. Early detection is key to the battle against prostate cancer.