Here are some interesting facts concerning prostate cancer and its treatment. Check your knowledge.

• One in 10 000 men under the age of 40 develop prostate cancer, whereas one in eight men between the ages of 60 and 80 suffer from the disease.


• For some reason not yet fully understood, the rate of prostate cancer among black men is higher than that of other race groups. A possibility exists that higher levels of testosterone may be responsible.


• Many men die with prostate cancer, but not from it.


• Although it has not been proven conclusively, it is thought that a diet high in fats could lead to increased testosterone production.


• Lack of exercise can lead to general ill-health and makes someone more susceptible to all sorts of diseases, prostate problems included.


• A man with three first degree relatives with prostate cancer has a ten times increased risk of developing prostate cancer himself.


• The prostate needs time and male hormones to develop cancer. Testosterone does not cause prostate cancer, but is essential for prostate cancer to develop.


• Men whose mothers or sisters have developed breast cancer are also at increased risk for prostate cancer.


• Because prostate cancer generally takes so long to develop, many doctors opt for the so-called 'watchful waiting' as a treatment option.


• Besides castration at a young age, which is obviously not a viable option, there is no certain way of preventing prostate cancer.

(Health24, updated February 2008)

Read more:
I want to protect my prostate
Chemo: Genetic factors at play

Share this page

• Laaik.it
• Yahoo
• Google
• Digg
• del.icio.us
• Facebook