Essays on Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a leading cause of death in men, with an estimated 164,690 new cases and 29,430 deaths in the United States in 2020. It occurs when cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably and form malignant tumors. This type of cancer is most common among older men; it affects one in nine men at some point during their lifetime. The good news is that prostate cancer can often be treated successfully if caught early. The exact cause of prostate cancer remains unknown but certain risk factors are associated with its development such as age, family history and race/ethnicity and lifestyle choices like diet and exercise which can increase or reduce the chance for developing this disease. Men who have close relatives (fathers or brothers) with a history of prostate cancer are more likely to develop it themselves than those without such a family history . Having African American heritage also increases risk as African Americans have been found to have higher rates of this condition than other ethnic groups. Additionally, obesity has been linked to increased risk for developing aggressive forms of prostate cancer while having regular physical activity has been shown to lower the probability for developing this disease significantly. Early detection through screening tests such as digital rectal exam (DRE) and Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test can lead to earlier diagnosis which then allows treatment options before symptoms occur or worsen. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or hormone therapy depending on patient’s individual health status , stage of disease at initial diagnosis , personal preferences etc..In addition , active surveillance may be suggested by doctors which means closely monitoring any changes over time rather than immediately going ahead with treatments right away . These methods allow patients to preserve quality life while still managing their illness effectively . Overall , although there is no sure way yet to prevent all types of prostate cancers from occurring , awareness about potential risk factors should help individuals make informed decisions when it comes to lifestyle choices . Regular screenings done by experienced healthcare professionals along with proper medical management provide better outcomes for those affected by this condition thus helping them live healthier lives despite facing challenges posed by this serious illness .