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10 interesting facts about prostate cancer

Last updated: Tuesday, March 22, 2011

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.