PROSTATE CANCER 101 WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER?
WHO IS AT RISK? Every 15 minutes an American man dies from prostate cancer. That is more than 95 deaths per day. A man’s risk of prostate cancer increases with age, and most prostate cancer is found in men over 50 years. The greatest risk factors are family history, African ancestry, Veteran status, and increasing age. Veterans are nearly twice as likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer, with nearly 1 in 5 Veterans being diagnosed*.
Prostate cancer is cancer that begins in the prostate. The prostate is a walnut- shaped gland in the male reproductive system located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds the urethra and makes the fluid to nourish and protect sperm cells. Cancer is defined as the uncontrolled growth of cells into tumors. Tumors can be benign (not cancerous), or malignant (cancerous). Most prostate cancer grows slowly and stays in the prostate. However, some can be aggressive and can spread quickly.
RISK FACTORS
FAMILY HISTORY AGING DIET RACE GENE CHANGES CHEMICAL EXPOSURE
Are you Black/African American? Are you a Veteran? Did your father or brother have prostate cancer? Are you over the age of 50? Do you consume a high-fat diet? TAKE THE RISK QUIZ
*Cancer Facts and Figures 2023, American Cancer Society
PROSTATE CANCER 101
PROSTATE CANCER 101
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