Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that specifically affects the prostate gland, a walnut-sized organ located just below the bladder in males. The prostate’s primary function is to produce prostate fluid, which is an essential component of semen. In prostate cancer, abnormal cells start to grow uncontrollably within the prostate, forming a tumor. This tumor can cause various symptoms such as difficulty urinating, pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, blood in the urine or semen, and erectile dysfunction.

While the exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown, certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include age (prostate cancer is more common in older men), family history of prostate or breast cancer, race (prostate cancer is more prevalent in African-American men), and certain genetic mutations. Early detection of prostate cancer is crucial for successful treatment. Doctors may perform a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test or a digital rectal exam (DRE) to screen for the disease.

Treatment options for prostate cancer depend on various factors, including the stage of the cancer, its aggressiveness, and the individual’s overall health. Treatment may involve active surveillance (regular monitoring without immediate intervention), surgery to remove the prostate (radical prostatectomy), radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.