Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men. When detected early, before it has spread to other organs, prostate cancer may be curable. A man's risk for prostate cancer increases with age, and most cases develop in men over 65. Since it tends to develop late in life and usually grows slowly, prostate cancer does not usually shorten a man's life. However, the younger you are and the larger or more advanced the cancer is, the more serious the disease may be.

There are no specific symptoms of prostate cancer. Most men have no symptoms at all. In a few cases, it can cause urinary symptoms very similar to those of prostate enlargement. In advanced cases, other symptoms, such as pain, may develop if the cancer spreads to other organs or to the bones.

Prostate cancer sometimes runs in families, is more common in African-American men, and tends to be more common in men who eat a high-fat diet.

Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to helping you and your family with information about prostate cancer. Below are some resources that we think you will find helpful. You can pick-up additional pamphlets, brochures, videos or tip-sheets in any of our Health Education Centers.

PROSTATE RESOURCES:
Prostate Problems
Facts about Prostate Cancer Screening
Prostate Problems