After Prostate Cancer - The facts and diagnosis

Prostate cancer is considered to be the most frequently diagnosed cancer among men in the United States and men's second leading cause of death to cancer. While the disease claims nearly 30,000 deaths a year, there is growing evidence that educational efforts leading for its early detection and diagnosis are resulting in lower mortality. This cancer is somewhat unusual from other types of cancer, in that in its advanced form, metastatic prostate cancer can often be successfully treated, with the person surviving in excellent health for many years.

Prostate cancer staging is a complex process, where it usually metastasizes first to the lower spine or the pelvic bones, causing back or pelvic pain. It is possible for the cancer can then spread to the liver and lungs. Treatment often will depend on the stage of the cancer us in, how fast the cancer grows, and how different it is from surrounding tissue helps determine the stage.

Prostate cancer usually occurs along the peripheral zone, where patients who are prescribed prescription medication often stay on them for the rest of their life, and researchers have been noting the potential adverse effects associated with their use. Men have been experiencing hot flashes, osteoporosis, anemia, fatigue, loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, risk of diabetes, risk of cardiovascular disease, emotional distress and other negative effects. This cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in American men, and still the cause of prostate cancer is unclear.

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in American males, where most of the deaths from prostate cancer are related to advanced disease. It is rare to see this cancer in men younger than 45, however the chance of getting it goes up sharply as a man gets older. Screening for this cancer typically involves a blood test looking for prostate-specific antigen, or PSA. High PSA levels in the blood, and a rise in PSA levels over time, will suggest a higher likelihood of contracting prostate cancer in the future.