Advanced Radiation Therapy Prostate Cancer
What is prostate cancer?
-American Cancer Society
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men (not counting skin cancer); it affects about 13 percent of men. More than 90% of prostate cancer is found in men over 55, with African-American men at higher risk.
The prostate gland produces fluid that’s a part of semen. And cancer typically develops when the cells of the prostate start to grow out of control. This is called adenocarcinoma, and it comprises more than 99% of all prostate cancers. Other rare types of prostate cancer include sarcomas, small cell carcinomas, neuroendocrine tumors, and transitional cell carcinomas.
Most prostate cancers grow very slowly, so they can be difficult to detect, and symptoms often don’t develop until the disease has progressed to more advanced stages. In addition, the symptoms often mimic those of other, less severe conditions.
The CDC reported over 3,500 new cases of prostate cancer in Minnesota in 2020. And the numbers are increasing. But with early detection and treatment, the outlook for prostate cancer patients is good.
For localized prostate cancer, the relative survival rate is 100 percent, according to the National Cancer Institute.
“Prevention is the key. Get tested early.”
Daniel A. Watson, MD
MRO | Fairview Southdale
