Prostate Cancer Facts

The prostate is a small walnut-sized gland just under the bladder in men. It's doughnut shape allows it to fit around the urethra. This 'uretha 'tube' transports urine from the bladder. The function of the prostate is to produce fluid to mix with sperm during male ejaculation.

Prostate cancer is now the most common male cancer in most western countries. Prostate tumors grow slowly, at least most are slow growing.  Thus, prostate cancer tumors often do not require treatment unlike fast growing tumors that can spread to the bones (painful) or other locations.

The most common symptoms noticed when suffering from prostate cancer is an inability to urinate; difficulty in passing urine (especially at night); weak or interrupted flow of urine; traces of blood in urine and pain; or discomfort noticed in the lower back, upper thighs and hips.

You should always seek medical advice if these notice these symptoms are noticed.  But remember that they may be caused by other less serious conditions such as benign prostate enlargement.

Cause of Prostate Cancer

The exact cause of prostate cancer not known.  Let's look at some factors:

In a small sample of cases, it appears to be from exposure to high levels of radiation. 

Of more concern, prostate cancer can run in families.  A close relative with prostate cancer can increase the risk by two or three times. So if there is a familial history of prostate cancer, other male members should have regular check-ups with their doctor. 

Prostate cancer is rare for men under the age of 50 years. However, the risk of development increases after age 50. Nearly half of prostate cancer cases occur in men over the age of 75 years. Again, those men from families with a history of prostate cancer remain at a higher than normal risk.

Evidence suggests a high fat diet can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Studies indicate a diet high in vitamin E, loaded with tomatoes and vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts (cruciform vegetables) may also lower the risk.

How about Mr "V"? It was once believed that a vasectomy increased the risk of developing cancer, but some research suggests that there is no causal relationship.

Testing

Several tests may be used to diagnose prostate cancer although each one is not conclusive alone:

• Rectal Examination - a gloved finger is inserted into the rectum to feel the size of the prostate gland.
• PSA Blood Test - prostate cancer is 'suggested' if the level of Prostate Specific Antigen is too high.
• Ultrasound - A small probe is inserted into the rectum to determine the exact size of the prostate.
• Biopsy - A tiny tissue sample is taken from the prostate via the rectum by insertion of needle.
• X-ray - Film can reveal metatasized cancer which may have spread to bones. CT scan is another viable test.

Prevention

Currently, there is no known way of absolutely preventing prostate cancer

Selenium.  Scientific studies have indicated that the consumption of 200 micrograms of selenium daily can reduce the risk prostate cancer.

CoEnzyme Q-10 has shown promise in high concentrations, 300-600mg per day.

Ellagic from the ellagitannens in natural fruits and plants  Clinical tests conducted at Hollings Cancer Institute at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) has shown that Ellagic Acid stops cancer growth.  Even one vendor has a prevention program based on healthy supplementation.

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