If discovered early, prostate cancer is treatable. Here are the basics you need to know concerning prostate cancer.

GRADES

Prostate cancers can be classified based on the speed of adenocarcinoma growth, the stage of tumour growth, and the degree of the normalcy of prostate tissue.

In terms of speed of growth, prostate cancer may be classified as aggressive (fast-growing) or non-aggressive. Non-aggressive cancers may remain the same size for years. The Gleason classification system classifies the speed of growth based on the degree of the normalcy of prostate tissue. A score from 1 to 5 is assigned. A score below 3 means tissue is normal, while 5 indicates a fast-growing tumour.

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RISK FACTORS

1. Age- prostate cancer is more common in men above the age of 40. Screening for prostate cancer is recommended.
2. Family history- a family member or two with prostate cancer or ovarian cancer may indicate a genetic predisposition. Early discovery is key.
3. Ethnic predisposition- according to research, African American males are more likely to develop this cancer.
4. Obesity
5. Environmental factors

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SYMPTOMS

Prostate cancer typically develops quietly; these signs and symptoms may be seen when the disease is advanced

1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
2. Hematuria-blood in the urine
3. Blood in semen
4. Difficulty urinating
5. Decreased force of urine
6. Hip, back, and chest pain

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WHEN TO GET SCREENED FOR PROSTATE CANCER

Age 40: men with very high risk, e.g., those with a first-degree relative who developed prostate cancer before 65.

Age 45: high risk; men subject to ethnic disposition or second-degree relative with prostate cancer

Age 50: average risk; third-degree relative, obesity, or other similar complications.