Prostatic Cancer

Prostatic Cancer:  Is the
second most common cancer in men over age 50.  Incidence is highest
among blacks and in men with blood type A, and lowest in Asians. 
It is important that all males over age 40 should undergo a rectal examination
as part of their annual physical examination.

Cause:  Unknown

Symptoms:

Usually signs and symptoms of prostatic cancer
appear in the advanced stages of the disease.

Difficulty urinating

Urine dribbling

Urine retention

Unexplained cystitis and hematuria

A hard nodule may appear on rectal examination
(this may be felt before symptoms develop.

Treatment:

Varies with each stage of the disease but generally
include:

Radiation

Prostatectomy

Orchiectomy (to decrease androgen production)

Hormone therapy