CLINICAL SERVICES


Prostate Cancer



There are many different types of cancer. In fact, cancer is really a group of diseases that affects different cells in the body. Prostate cancer is a disease that affects the cells of the prostate. Normally, cells grow and divide in an orderly way. This is how the body grows and stays healthy. Sometimes this normal process of cell growth can go wrong. If abnormal cells continue to divide when they're not supposed to, they can form a tumor. Cancerous prostate tumors can, if untreated, spread to other parts of the body.
If symptoms occur, they may include difficulty starting urination, reduced force of stream of urine, urinating small amounts frequently, urinating more frequently during the night, painful urination and bone pain. Often there are no symptoms, which is why screening is so important.

The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. It is about the same size and shape as a walnut and weighs only about an ounce. As pictured in the diagram, the prostate is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate surrounds a tube called the urethra that carries urine from the bladder out through the penis. The main function of the prostate is to produce fluid for semen.

Who is at risk?
All men of appropriate age should ask their doctor to be screened for prostate cancer.
The American Urological Association (AUA) encourages physicians to routinely offer prostate cancer testing to men who have an anticipated lifespan of 10 or more years and are:

  • Over the age of 50 years.
  • Over the age of 40 years and have a family history of the disease (for example, a father or brother who was diagnosed with prostate cancer), or over the age of 40 years and African-America.

    • ** Note **

    Please remember that the information presented in this forum is for your education only, and is not intended to extend medical advice or diagnosis. If you have questions or feel that you may be experiencing symptoms similar to those presented, please call the Berkeley County Health Department at (304) 263-5131 or your primary care provider for formal medical attention.