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About Prostate Cancer

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that only men have. It is part of the reproductive system that makes the fluid that carries sperm. As you can see in the picture on the right hand side, the prostate is located in front of the rectum and just below the bladder. The urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body, runs through the centre of the prostate. As men age, the prostate tends to increase in size. This can cause the urethra to narrow and decrease urine flow.

The prostate gland can be affected by prostate conditions other than cancer. These include Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or an infection.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common disease affecting the prostate gland. BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. BPH is a common problem that is age-related and affects nearly all men as they age.

An infection can result in irritation or inflammation of the prostate gland, causing it to become sore and swollen.

The prostate gland can also be affected by prostate cancer. Prostate cancer occurs most often in men over fifty years of age and is generally a slow-growing cancer.

For more information on understanding your risk of prostate cancer and the tests available for early diagnosis, refer to the following resource: http://www.prostatehealth.org.au/phip_1.html#EarlyDetection or contact The Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.