Prostate Cancer can be cured if caught early

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer among men in the United States (U.S.), other than some kinds of skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths and the seventh leading cause of death overall for men in this country.  In 2010, the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that approximately 217,730 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S., resulting in an estimated 32,050 deaths nationally.  In Florida, the ACS estimates that 14,610 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2010 and approximately 2,590 of them will die from the disease.  Moreover, the death rate from prostate cancer for African-American men is nearly three times higher than for white men.

We encourage all men to be aware of the risk factors associated with developing prostate cancer and to take an active role in their health.  Factors that may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer include:

Age – As a man ages, his risk increases. The average age of patients at the time of diagnosis is 65.

Family history of prostate cancer – A man’s risk is higher if his father, brother or son has had prostate cancer.

Race – The disease is more common in African-American men than in white men.  African-American men are at a nearly 60 percent greater risk of developing prostate cancer than white men and are far more likely to die of the disease.

Diet and dietary factors – Some studies suggest that men who eat a diet high in saturated fat and red meat may be at increased risk for prostate cancer.  There have also been some recent studies that found links between obesity and an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

Because prostate cancer can be cured if caught early, men who have any of these risk factors should consult with their doctor about the appropriateness of screening.