Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a malignant (cancerous) tumor that starts from cells of the prostate, typically the gland cells. Normally, prostate cancer grows slowly, but it has been seen to grow and spread quickly in some cases.

By measuring the levels of prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, in the blood or by performing a digital rectal exam (DRE), it is possible to detect prostate cancer in its early stages of development. During a DRE the prostate gland is examined for bumps or solid masses, which could be identified as tumors.

Common symptoms of prostate cancer are the need to urinate frequently (especially at night), difficulty urinating, and difficulty or pain with ejaculation. Other symptoms may include blood in urine or semen. If your doctor suspects prostate cancer, he will likely perform a biopsy to make the diagnosis and, if it is indeed cancer, to determine the stage of the disease and how quickly or slowly it might grow and spread.

The most common treatments for prostate cancer may include surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy. Chemotherapy may also be used in cases of more advanced disease. The most common operation for prostate cancer is a radical prostatectomy, which simply removes the prostate in cases in which the disease has not spread.

An Introduction to the PSA Test in Prostate Cancer

For people with prostate cancer, there is a growing interest in the PSA Test and what a change in PSA levels may mean. To learn more about the PSA Test in prostate cancer, click here.
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Prostate Cancer Foundation
This site answers many common initial questions about prostate cancer plus offers news, free downloadable treatment guides, and helpful nutrition information.

Prostate Cancer Research Institute (PCRI)    
Not-for-profit education and research organization provides a wealth of links to several free videos and DVDs; also gives information on treatment, diagnosis and other online tools for survivors and their loved ones.

MedlinePlus 
Developed by government agencies and other health organizations, this site contains information about drugs, an illustrated medical encyclopedia, lots of interactive patient tutorials, and the latest health news. Also features a "guide to healthy web surfing."

MedlinePlus Encyclopedia
This page features a medical encyclopedia article related to prostate cancer.

National Cancer Institute — Clinical Trials, Prevention and More    
Government resource for clinical trials, tips on prevention, helpful tools for screening and testing, plus up-to-date statistics and research.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 
Federally-supported site offers basic information about prostate cancer plus statistics, publications, and local community activities.

National Cancer Institute — Detailed Online Booklet    
A detailed online booklet listing possible causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and coping techniques for prostate cancer.

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