What is your risk of prostate cancer?

By Robert Preidt
HealthDay Reporter

Thursday, September 12, 2019 (HealthDay News) – Prostate cancer is the second most important cancer in American men. It is therefore important to know the risk factors and the warning signs, says an expert.

The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be nearly 175,000 new cases of prostate cancer in the United States this year and more than 31,000 deaths. Prostate cancer will be diagnosed in one in nine men during their lifetime.

"The disease can be successfully treated when it is detected early, usually when it is still in the prostate," said Dr. Alexander Kutikov, head of the Urologic Oncology Department at Fox Chase. Cancer Center in Philadelphia. "However, some types are aggressive and can spread quickly, in which case the chances of successful treatment may be lower."

September is National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

Men between 55 and 69 years old should consider screening for prostate cancer, according to the American Urological Association.

"Because screening has its advantages and disadvantages, it is not desirable for all men to be screened for prostate cancer," said Kutikov. "Men should discuss their risk factors, screening options, and preferences with their health care provider before deciding whether or not to be screened."

Symptoms of prostate cancer may include difficulty in urination, including slow or slow flow, or the need to urinate more often, especially at night; blood in the urine; and pain or burning sensation during urination.

The risk of prostate cancer increases rapidly after the age of 50. About six out of ten prostate cancers are diagnosed in men over 65, according to a press release issued by the cancer center.

Race is another risk factor. Compared to whites, blacks are at higher risk and are more than twice as likely to die of prostate cancer. Men of Asian-American and Hispanic origin have a lower risk than white men.

Having a father or brother with prostate cancer more than doubles the chances of a man developing the disease. The risk is much higher among men with multiple affected parents, especially when they were young at the time of diagnosis.