Posted on: 11 Jun 2021
Prostate cancer is when abnormal cells form and grow in the prostate gland. Not all abnormal growths (tumors), are cancerous. Some tumors are not cancerous (benign) and are not life threatening. Cancerous growths, such as prostate cancer, can spread to nearby organs and tissues such as the bladder or rectum, or to other parts of the body.
Prostate cancer stays “localized” when cancer cells are found only in the prostate or even a little bit beyond it, but do not move to other parts of the body. If the cancer moves to other parts of the body, it is called “advanced” prostate cancer.
While the cause of prostate cancer is unknown, there are many factors that can increase a man’s risk for the disease, such as age, ethnicity, family history and weight.
In its early stages, prostate cancer may have no symptoms. When symptoms are present, they can be urinary symptoms like those of an enlarged prostate or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). Tests can help to find prostate cancer early, before it spreads. Early prostate cancer treatment may stop or slow the spread of cancer. If you have symptoms, family history or are at high risk for prostate cancer, talk with your doctor about next steps including tests and if needed, treatment.
The below resources can be used to help you learn more basic information about early-stage prostate cancer.
Early-stage Prostate Cancer: What You Should Know Fact Sheet
Early-stage Prostate Cancer: Treatments Fact Sheet
Prostate Cancer Screening Assessment Tool
Podcast: Prostate Cancer 101 with Dr. Scott Eggener
For more detailed, in-depth information about early-stage prostate cancer, view the below resources.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Early-stage Prostate Cancer Patient Guide
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