Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer develops in the prostate, a small walnut-shaped gland that produces seminal fluid. Most prostate cancers grow slowly and may not cause serious harm, but some are aggressive and can spread quickly. **Types:** - **Adenocarcinoma:** Almost all prostate cancers (95%+) are this type, developing from gland cells - **Small cell carcinoma:** Rare, aggressive type - **Neuroendocrine tumors:** Very rare - **Transitional cell carcinoma:** Very rare, starts in the urethra **Gleason Score:** Prostate cancer is graded using the Gleason score (6-10), which indicates how aggressive the cancer appears under a microscope. Lower scores indicate slower-growing cancer. **Risk Groups:** - Low-risk: May be monitored without immediate treatment (active surveillance) - Intermediate-risk: Usually treated, but options vary - High-risk: Aggressive treatment typically recommended **Key Point:** Many men with prostate cancer will live for years without symptoms or problems. The challenge is distinguishing aggressive cancers that need treatment from slow-growing ones that may never cause harm.

**Age:** Prostate cancer is rare before age 40, but risk increases rapidly after 50. About 60% of cases are diagnosed in men over 65. **Race/Ethnicity:** African American men have the highest prostate cancer rates and are more likely to develop aggressive cancer. Reasons are not fully understood but may involve genetic, dietary, and healthcare access factors. **Family History:** Having a father or brother with prostate cancer more than doubles your risk. Risk is higher if the relative was diagnosed young. **Genetics:** Inherited mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, and other genes increase risk. Men with Lynch syndrome also have elevated risk. **Hormones:** Testosterone and other androgens fuel prostate cancer growth, which is why hormone therapy is a treatment option. **Diet and Lifestyle:** High-fat diets, especially those high in red meat and dairy, may increase risk. Obesity is linked to more aggressive prostate cancer.