Prostate is a walnut-sized gland in the male reproduction system, located between the bladder neck and the urinary passage (urethra). Prostate secretes whitish fluid that nourishes and transports sperm; when mixed with sperm, the fluid becomes semen. Male hormone secreted by testicles directly affects the growth and functions of prostate.
Swollen prostates are common among middle aged and elderly males but most of the cases are benign hyperplasia (abnormal increase in number of cells). When there is abnormal genetic mutations, malignant tumors may develop in the prostate, causing prostate cancer. Prostate cancer may spread to other parts of the body, particularly the bones and lymph nodes in the pelvis.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common male cancers, with an increasing number of reported cases in recent years. New cases in Hong Kong increased from 683 in 2000 to 1655 in 2013 and most patients are above the age of 60.
What are the high risk factor(s) of Prostate Cancer?Some people have higher risks of prostate cancer than others. You have to pay special attention if you fall within the following categories:
- Age: over 50
- Hereditary: males with family history of prostate cancer carry higher risks
- Diet: prolonged intake of food with high calorie and high fat
- Others: smoking, over-weighted and prostate diseases, etc.
