Prostate Cancer - Definition, Causes and Myths

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, even though it is relatively rare in countries in Asia, Africa and South America. With more than 200,000 patients being diagnosed with the condition and 30,000 dying from it every year, this disease is a serious health concern in the US as well as in other developed countries. That is why it is a good idea to learn more about it. 

This condition is characterized by the growth of malignant tumor cells in the prostate, the gland producing the fluid which carries sperm. This gland is situated blow the bladder and surrounds the upper part of the urethra, the tube that carries the urine out of the body. This is important to know because the tumor can spread and affect the tissues of the bladder and urethra as well as other nearby tissues. 

Thankfully, prostate cancer develops very slowly. In fact, it can take decades to grow and reach other tissues. For this reason, about 85% of all men having the condition are diagnosed in its early stages of development, when it is still confined to the prostate. 

The general causes of prostate cancer are not yet identified. However, some factors increasing the risk of the condition have been defined. Age is one of the main risk factors. Every 4 out of 5 men who have this condition are 65 or older. The men under the age of 50 account for less than 1% of all patients. In addition, African Americans have higher chances of developing the condition. 

The fat-rich diet is considered one of the main risk factors for the development of prostate cancer in men. Fat can stimulate an increased production of testosterone. As this hormone regulates the activity of the prostate it can stimulate the development of cancer cells in the gland. For this reason, a diet rich in red meats and fatty dairy products can lead to this type of cancer. In addition, it is known that cooked meat can contain carcinogenic chemical compounds. 

There are a lot of myths associated with prostate cancer. Despite the common misconception, there is no identified link between this condition and active sex life and masturbation. Prostate infections, vasectomy and infertility cannot lead to the development of a malignant tumor either.