January 29, 2008

Important Signs Of Prostate Cancer

Rates of prostate cancer vary widely across the world. It is least common in South and East Asia, more common in Europe, though the rates vary widely between countries, and most common in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is least common among Asian men and most common among black men with figures for European men in between. However, these high rates may be affected by increasing rates of detection. Although prostate cancer can sometimes strike younger men, the risk of getting it increases with age and more than seventy percent of men diagnosed with the disease are over the age of sixty five.

The disease can occur in men only; the prostate is exculsively of the male reproductive tract. Prostate cancer is a disease in which cancer develops in the prostate of the male reproductive system, this happens when cells in the prostate begin to grow out of control and can then invade nearby tissues or spread throughout the body. Large collections of this out of control tissue are called tumors. The tumor usually grows slowly and remains confined to the gland for many years.

During this time, the tumor produces little or no symptoms or outward signs (abnormalities on physical examination). As the cancer advances, however, it can spread beyond the prostate into the surrounding tissues (local spread). Moreover, the cancer also can metastasize (spread even farther) throughout other areas of the body, such as the bones, lungs, and liver. Symptoms and signs, therefore, are more often associated with advanced prostate cancer. Prostate cancer may cause pain, difficulty in urinating, erectile dysfunction and other symptoms.

The cause of prostate cancer has not been identified but the cancer is thought to be related to benign prostatic hypertrophy (BHP). The risk factors include advancing age, heredity, hormonal influences, and such enviromental toxins, chemicals, and industrial products. The best way to try and prevent prostate cancer is to modify the risk factors for the disease that you have control over.

You may want to try to eat a low fat diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables. Certain foods, vitamins and minerals have been suggested to decrease your chances of getting prostate cancer, however doctors are still studying more data before any particular food or supplement can be endorsed for preventing the disease. Currently, there are studies looking at selenium, lycopen, vitamin A and other retinoids, vitamin D, vitamin E, and soy for prostate cancer prevention.

Since it is a disease of older men, many will die of other causes before the disease can spread or cause symptoms. Deciding on treatment can be daunting not only because there are far better options for treatment today that they were ten years ago but also because not enough relaiable data are available on which to base the decisions. Prostate cancer can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, occasionally chemotherapy, or some combination of these.

Most men who have the risk factors do not get the disease, on the other hand men who do get the disease often have no known risk factors, except for growing older. If you think that you may be at risk, you should consult your doctor immediately so that you may be given suggestions on ways of reducing your risk and can plan scheduled check-ups.

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For More Information On Prostate Cancer Visit
http://prostatecancer.topwomenshealth.com

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January 24, 2008

Prostate Cancer Surgery Treatment: Knowing Your Options

In many cases, early stage prostate cancer surgery treatment is recommended as the first course of action. If you had detected your prostate cancer early, then the operation is a fairly simple procedure. Only the cancerous section of your prostate gland is removed.

However, on ocassions, prostate cancer surgery treatment does not go according to plan. This happens when your cancer is found to be in close proximity to nerves or the urethra, and so long-lasting side effects are a possibility. You will need to consider these issues before agreeing to the treatment.

If the nerves that control the penis become damaged during your treatment, then impotence may develop and this will seriously affect your future sex life. You should discuss this with your partner and see how you both feel about it before you agree to the operation.

Two other possible consequences of prostate cancer surgery treatment are incontinence and urinary leakage. Incontinence is when you have very little control over urination while urinary leakage is where you can control when you urinate but you dribble a little either before or after voiding your bladder. These two symptoms often disappear after a few weeks however you should be prepared for the eventuality that they do not.

Prostate cancer surgery treatment is a painful procedure and in the days following the operation you will feel very uncomfortable and may have to rely on nurses and loved ones to help with toileting. This however is a very small price to pay for being cancer-free.

There are a number of types of treatment for prostate cancer available and the one you choose will be specific to your case. You need to discuss your options with your oncologist before choosing a treatment. Your oncologist should be well equipped to offer all the information you need to make an informed decision.

More often than not the entire prostate gland will be removed so that there is little chance of the cancer returning at a later date. The surrounding lymph nodes will also be removed as this is the first place that the cancer will have spread to and by removing them the surgeon is effectively removing all chances of the cancer subsequently spreading around the body.

A radical prostatectomy removes the entire prostate gland however the surgeon can enter the body through the abdomen or through an incision made between the scrotum and the anus. In some cases, where the cancer is confined to a specific area of the prostate gland, key-hole surgery or laparoscopy may be an option so that only infected sections of the gland need to be removed.

Your decision on the specific prostate cancer surgery treatment will depend on the extent of your cancer and your individual preferences. It is crucial that you discuss your decision over with your loved ones. They may have some inputs that can help you choose which option is best.

About the Author
The incidence of diabetes is on the rise. Learn more about diabetes treatment on this site here at
http://www.diabetes-treatment-research-hub.com.

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Prostate Cancer Diet:Boost Your Immunity With Isoflavones and Polyphenols

One of the biggest risk factors associated with the incidence of prostate cancer is diet. The Westernized diet of red meat and saturated fat is thought to significantly contribute to the probability of an individual developing prostate cancer and so a prostate cancer diet should be started as early on in life as possible.

Men living in Eastern countries and especially Asia have a much lower incidence rate of prostate cancer than American men for example. This is possibly because Asian men eat a much healthier diet than most Americans. In addition, when Asian men relocate to a Westernized country the probability of them developing the condition gradually rises until it equals that of native men.

Hence, it would seem logical that the prostate cancer diet needs to contain all of the ingredients that are commonly found in an Eastern diet while cutting out the unhealthy saturated fats and simple carbohydrates that are found in so many Westernized foods i.e. fast foods, take-aways etc. This simple change in diet may have a tremendous effect on prostate health in general.

Researchers are currently devoting a lot of time to analysing the Eastern diet and trying to find out what it contains that makes it a good prostate cancer nutrition diet. So far the emphasis is being placed on two particular nutrients; isoflavones and polyphenols which are found in soy and green tea respectively.

Isoflavones are thought to stop the process of abnormal cell growth and so if ingested in relatively concentrated amounts can reduce the incidence of cancer which is, in simple terms, a mass of abnormal cells. They do this by inhibiting the effects of the sex hormones and in particular testosterone on the prostate gland meaning that it is less likely to become cancerous.

Isoflavones can be found in soy and so a prostate cancer nutrition diet should contain a larger than normal amount of soy products. Even if further research finds that isoflavones are not an effective prostate cancer nutrition supplement they are still a necessary part of the diet and should be included either way.

Polyphenols are also thought to hinder the growth process of abnormal cells so that tumours grow and form blood supplies a lot slower than normal. Polyphenols are found in relatively large quantities in green tea, another suggested ingredient for an effective prostate cancer nutrition diet. Just how much tea needs to be drunk for the polyphenols to have an effect is as yet unknown however researchers are currently trying to isolate the nutrient and make it more potent, meaning that less would have to be ingested per day.

Thus, it is possible to boost your immunity to prostate cancer by making a few changes and eating a prostate cancer diet. Start including isoflavones and polyphenols in your meals today!

About the Author
Your prostate health is important for cancer prevention. For more information, resources and support, please click
http://www.prostate-cancer-treatment-hub.com.

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A Mans Prostate Health Care

Learn health care for a mans prostate. What special diets and life style support a healthy prostate. Over half of all men over 50 have an enlarged prostate.

Prostate problems all too often and effect a mans activities and all ages can be effected. Men often know a lot more about a womens cycle than they do about their own sexual health. However, problems with a mans prostate as just as common that with womens period cycle issues.

Some of the symptoms with men with prostate problems are difficulty in urination with increased frequency of urination. Painful urination and having to get up at night to urinate are other symptoms. Pain in the lower back is another sign of possible prostate issues.

When a man ages, it is usual for the prostate gland to become bigger. This condition of enlarged prostate "benign prostatic hyperplasia" or BPH. For some men this causes no problems but for some the prostate enlarges and this causing the prostate gland to press inward against the urethra narrowing the space for urine to flow. The bladder wall can become thicker and irritable causing more frequent urination. Eventually some urine remains in the bladder A doctor can diagnose an enlarged prostate during a finger prostate exam.

About 400,000 men in the USA have prostate surgery each year costing over $2 Billion a year.

Experts in diet strongly recommend that a good diet and exercise routine help in preventive and treatment of prostate problems. THe general recommendations are to reduce red meat and saturated fat in the diet and eat more fruit and vegetables. Drinking more water rather that coke and a good exercise program are essential both for prostate care and leading a better, healthier and happier life.

The three nos are cigarettes, booze and high fat foods. Research has shown that aerobic exercise such as jogging, dancing or swimming can improve the state your your prostate.

Men who walked for two to three hours per week were 25 percent less likely to develop prostate problems than those who did little walking. Just 20 minutes walking a day is a little time to put aside for increased health benefits and more energy and as a side benefit better sexual function.

The good news is that lovemaking a few times a week helps your prostate due to the action of the semen and prostate function.

It is important to see your doctor regularly for a prostate check up. They can test for some hormones that rise as a result of prostate cancer.

There are good pharmaceutical medicines are available from your doctor to improve the symptoms of prostate enlargement. The good news is that there are also effective natural therapies, which include the use of time-tested herbs.

Traditionally, several herbs have been used in prostate support. These include Saw Palmetto,and Nettle. Some plant extracts that have also been studied and have indicated in studies to be effective and they include beta sitosterol, genistein, daidzein and lycopene. A good naturopath can recommend several good supplements for prostate care.

About the Author
Maurice Tate is a qualified sexologist trained at the Advanced Institute of Sexology. For more on the prostate visit
http://www.lovemyprostate.com

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Symptoms Of An Enlarged Prostate

Prostate problems have symptoms that are easy to identify. Many of them are caused by the obstruction of the urethra and the loss of bladder function. Symptoms vary with each individual but the most common symptoms involve changes in urination habits. Symptoms include:

A weakened stream of urine, or interrupted stream

Having an urgency to urinate or leaking and dribbling

More frequent urination during the night

Some men who have an enlarged prostate will not suffer any symptoms and others may face serious problems. Some men with an enlarged prostate do not have symptoms, while other men may have symptoms but their prostate is not too large. A man may not know he has a problem until he stops urinating totally. This can happen if he is on an over-the-counter decongestant drug. The drug used in decongestants may prevent the bladder opening to relax to allow the urine to flow out.

Cold temperatures, alcohol, or long periods of inactivity can also cause retention of urine. If you are having any of these symptoms, contact your doctor to have the problem checked. In most cases, the symptoms can point to BPH or enlarged prostate, but sometimes it can mean a more serious condition that may need immediate treatment.

If symptoms are left untreated, more serious complications can be the result. The strain on the bladder and the retention of urine can cause kidney or bladder damage and urinary tract infections. It may lead to the inability to control urination, cause kidney or bladder stones and may resist treatment if not diagnosed early.

Diagnosis can be done with a routine checkup with your doctor. Part of that routine checkup will be a prostate check if you are over the age of 40. The doctor can feel the part of the prostate that is positioned next to the rectum by doing a rectal exam. If the doctor suspects that you may have a problem with your prostate, he/she will probably refer you to an urologist, a specialist in urinary tract problems. The urologist may perform several tests in order to isolate any prostate problems.

Besides the digital rectal exam the doctor may perform a blood test that will show if there is a high number of PSA, a protein made by the prostate gland. If high levels are found it may signal prostate cancer. A PSA test may be given to men who have successfully been treated for prostate cancer. There is a problem with using only a PSA test to discover prostate cancer. High levels of PSA in the blood could signal other benign prostate conditions.

Other tests to check for prostate cancer are a rectal ultrasound. A probe inserted into the rectum sends sound waves at the prostate gland and then displays the prostate on a screen. If the prostate looks unusual a needle biopsy can be done during the ultrasound. The needle picks up a few tiny pieces of the prostate gland and the doctor, or, more likely a specialist, can examine them under a microscope. Your doctor will help you decide further tests that you may need.

About the Author
Verlyn Ross owns and operates a website dedicated specifically to providing health and fitness information. It includes a wealth of free articles in which you may have an interest. For a great place to get Answers, go here!
http://www.achieve-health-fitness.com

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January 23, 2008

How Your Weight Affects Your Prostate Cancer Treatment

Every case of prostate cancer is different; hence each one has to be evaluated on its individual merits. Your general health, weight, age and motivation all need to be taken into account when choosing a form of prostate cancer treatment. If you are overweight, know that this factor alone can affect how your prostate cancer treatment is going to be like.

Occasionally prostate cancer treatments will not have a big enough effect on some men, especially obese men. External radiation therapy uses a beam of subatomic particles to kill the cancerous cells in the prostate gland . However, if you are overweight, the beam is unable to penetrate through the extra layers of fat. This renders the prostate cancer treatment ineffective. In cases such as this, a more radical form of treatment is usually recommended.

Being obese may initially help to cause prostate cancer and then it may help the cancer to spread more rapidly and more aggressively as well. Fatty diets that contain high levels of saturated fats and dairy products are thought to contribute to the probability of developing prostate cancer in the first place and remaining overweight may enhance the spread of the disease.

Thus, even if the prostate gland is removed as part of your prostate cancer treatment the cancer might have already spread making it harder to control and totally rid from the body. In fact, men who are obese are 70% more likely to develop metastases i.e. secondary tumours at other sites around the body, than men who are fit and a healthy weight.

This would suggest that the incidence of prostate cancer is somewhat linked to diet and that being obese may mean you require surgery as a form of prostate cancer treatment. For this reason every man over the age of 25 should make an effort to maintain a healthy weight and eat foods that are low in saturated fats and dairy products, even if it is just as a precaution against the possibility of surgery as a future prostate cancer treatment!

A balanced diet with plenty of antioxidants such as lycopenes, which are found in tomatoes, watermelon and other types of fruit could seriously help to combat the first signs of prostate cancer meaning that any cancerous cells are killed before they have chance to divide and grow. Fibre is also a requirement of a healthy diet and as it helps to encourage frequent bowel movements it also rids the body of potentially harmful toxins and bacteria.

If you are of a healthy weight, it is possible that you will be taking a course of radiation as a prostate
cancer treatment rather than invasive surgery followed by a course of radiation. Do your sums and you will realise that being of a healthy weight has a far more advantages.

About the Author
Your prostate health is important for cancer prevention. For more information, resources and support, please click
http://www.prostate-cancer-treatment-hub.com.

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Prostate Cancer Risk Factors

The exact cause of this disease has not yet been discovered. No one can explain why one man develops prostate problems along with cancer and the other man does not. Cancer cannot be caught from another person. It is not contagious. However, there are some risk factors that make it more likely for some men to develop this disease.

Age is the number one cause of prostate cancer. It is rare to find a man under the age of 40 to have the disease. The chances of that happening are 1 in 10,000! As a man grows older, his risk factors rise dramatically. Most men who develop the disease are over the age of 65.

Family history is another risk factor for prostate cancer. If a man has a father or brother who has had the disease, he is more likely to develop it. Race is another deciding factor. This dosease is found in more African-American men than white or Hispanic men. Asian and American Indian men have a smaller risk of developing this disease.

A little known risk of developing prostate cancer is men with prostate cells called (PIN) prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia. These cells look abnormal under a microscope and men with these cells are considered high risk.

Diet is another factor is deciding who develops prostate cancer. Scientists have proved that those men who have diets rich in fats and red meats are more at risk of developing cancer. Men who have a diet rich in fruits and vegetables have been shown to have a lower risk of developing this disease.

This is just a few of the prostate cancer risk factors but the good news is you can control some of them. Obviously you cannot control your race, or your family history and you cannot stop the aging process. You can help yourself by changing your dietary habits and taking better care of your body.

Scientists who have studied prostate cancer are looking at possible links between the disease and smoking, lack of exercise, obesity and a virus passed through sexual intercourse. All of these are being studied and with no final conclusion, at this time. Scientists are also studying a link between vasectomies and prostate cancer. At this time, this link has not been proven.

Most men who have risk factors like the ones listed above do not mean you will get prostate cancer. Men who do get this disease often do not have any risk factors except their age. One in three men are likely to develop prostate problems or cancer whether they have more than one risk factor or not.

If you think you may have a high risk for developing prostate cancer or have symptoms of the disease, you should talk with your doctor. Your doctor may suggest you see an urologist who specializes in urinary problems and problems with the male reproductive organs. They should be up-to-date with all the newest information, research, and treatment plans for thils disease.

About the Author
Verlyn Ross owns and operates a website dedicated specifically to providing health and fitness information. It includes a wealth of free articles in which you may have an interest. For a great place to get Answers, go here!
http://www.achieve-health-fitness.com

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Prostate Hyperplasia Symptoms: What Are They?

Virtually every man over the age of 60 will have one of the numerous conditions that affect the prostate gland. Unfortunately many of the conditions exhibit only mild symptoms until they are well developed and so you may not even realise you have a problem.

One of the conditions that affects many men is Prostatic hyperplasia, also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). This is common in men over the age of 50 and although it is not cancerous, it can cause the same prostate symptoms as prostate cancer.

Prostate hyperplasia symptoms are present in around 90% of men over the age of 80. However unless it causes the prostate gland to become grossly enlarged, the symptoms are relatively mild and attributed to the rigors of old age.

The cause of prostate hyperplasia is not accurately known however it is thought by many researchers and oncologists to be a hormone derived condition. The male hormone testosterone is converted to a secondary hormone called dihydrotestosterone naturally in the body and when this secondary hormone binds with specific receptors in the tissues of the prostate gland, cellular growth and division becomes over-stimulated. Thus the prostate gland becomes enlarged so producing prostate hyperplasia.

Certain families of drugs can be used to reduce the amount of testosterone in the body or to stop the available testosterone from binding with the receptors in the prostate gland. This acts to stop prostate hyperplasia symptoms from developing further and may even reduce the size of the prostate gland over time.

Unfortunately drug therapy for this condition is an ongoing therapy and if diagnosed, you will be required to take drugs daily for the rest of your life.

Prostate hyperplasia symptoms are very similar to those of prostate cancer and so if you notice any of the following symptoms you should visit your family doctor straight away.

* Difficulty urinating
* Urinary leakage
* Pain when urinating
* A feeling of urgency to urinate
* Increased night time urination
* Any other problems associated with urinating

As mentioned above prostate hyperplasia can easily be controlled and treated with simple drug regimes however if the symptoms are due to cancer then more severe treatment will be required. Do not automatically think that a diagnosis of prostate hyperplasia means that cancer is the next step because it is not.

Admittedly some cases of prostate hyperplasia do develop to become cancerous. However, it is possible to control this condition with early and continued treatment. An enlargement of the prostate gland can often be reduced.
About the Author
Your prostate health is important for cancer prevention. For more information, resources and support, please click
http://www.prostate-cancer-treatment-hub.com.

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January 21, 2008

The Benefits Of Natural Prostate Health

Men know that it is important to take care of your health as much as women. With diseases like prostate cancer threatening the male body, it clear that men need to be more careful with their health.

Natural prostate health involves giving your prostate the internal protection it needs. That means finding a natural health regimen that will help to prevent your body from wearing down and producing potentially irregular, cancerous cells.

Natural prostate health also involves knowing which type of supplements will protect and nourish your prostate.

A natural approach to prostate health may be your best option in the long run if you are currently not having any prostate problems. If you increase the amount of antioxidants you consume and simultaneously decrease the amount of preservatives you consume, you may be greatly reducing your chances of getting cancer or other prostate irregularities.

Natural prostate health is the best choice that many men are making today to ensure their health, since natural health is about taking care of your body as a whole. The emphasis on the prostate is so that men are made aware that indeed they too can protect themselves from getting prostate cancer.

Natural prostate cancer institutes understand that men need to have the know-how, so that they will not be caught unaware.
This is why you should contact your nearest natural health institute before you ever experience irregularities to discuss what options you have.

Let natural prostate health help you all the way, which is the rest of your life. Rather than bombarding your body with chemicals and radiation after you develop cancer, attack it proactively by living a more healthy lifestyle.

Make that commitment to your prostate's health by committing yourself to a natural health way of life. It is your ticket to ensure that you are not suddenly caught by prostate cancer unaware.

About the Author
Emmanuel Aubrey The Information Generator My website is
www.emmanuelaubrey.com if you want more information on health topics visit my website. my email: emmanuel@emmanuelaubrey.com

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The PSA Test - How Does It Work

The purpose of this article is to remove some of the mystery surrounding the PSA test and its use in signaling the potential presence of prostate cancer.

The cells of the prostate gland produce prostate-specific antigen. A rectal exam and a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test will help detect prostate cancer in men age 50 or over. The Federal Drug Administration approved the use of the PSA test to detect prostate cancer and to see if the cancer has recurred. A high PSA level is a sign that cancer is present. There are other reasons for a high PSA level and PSA screening has some limits.

The PSA test measures the level of protein produced by the prostate gland. The doctor will take a blood sample and send it to a laboratory. This test is sometimes called a biological marker for cancer tumors. Men normally have low levels of PSA in their blood. If the rate is high, it could point to prostate cancer but it can mean there are other non-cancer conditions present in the prostate.

As men get older, prostate cancer and other prostate problems become more of a problem. Enlarged prostate and prostatitis may raise the PSA levels in the blood. Neither of these problems causes cancer but it is possible for a man with one of these problems to develop prostate cancer.
The PSA level will not tell the doctor if the patient has a benign prostate problem or cancer. The doctor will use the PSA test to decide if there should be a check for other signs of prostate cancer.

The Federal Drug Administration approved the PSA test to be used with a rectal exam to check for any abnormalities in the prostate. The doctor will insert a gloved finger into the rectum to check for lumps or areas that seem abnormal. The PSA test is used with this rectal exam to detect cancer in men, especially those who have no symptoms. The FDA also approved the test for patients who have had prostate cancer to see if the cancer has come back.

The PSA test is highly recommended for men over the age of 50. If the patient has a high risk factor for prostate cancer, the doctor may recommend PSA testing to start at age 45. There are some risk factors a man should look at if a doctor recommends routine screening. Age is the most common risk factor, but if there is a family history of prostate cancer you have a greater chance of having it too. African-American has the largest risk of contacting prostate cancer. Native American and Asian men have the lowest rates of this disease. Some think this might be because a diet that is high in animal fat may increase the chance of getting prostate cancer.

If a man shows a high PSA level in his blood the doctor may look for other causes before doing more screening for prostate cancer. If the patients have no other symptoms, you may be advised to watch for any changes in urination habits and take another PSA test in a few months.

About the Author
Verlyn Ross owns and operates a website dedicated specifically to providing health and fitness information. It includes a wealth of free articles in which you may have an interest. For a great place to get Answers, go here!
http://www.achieve-health-fitness.com

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January 18, 2008

Natural Remedies for Prostate Enlargement

As men get into their late forties or fifties, their bodies become more susceptible to certain diseases and ill conditions, especially of the prostate gland. Part of the male reproductive system, the prostate is walnut-sized bulb of tissue located at the base of the bladder. After a man reaches the age of 45, the prostate gland becomes more vulnerable to prostate enlargement, also known as benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH).

The causes of BPH seem to lie in men’s diet, and a high-fat, high-sugar diet is thought to increase a man’s risk of developing BPH. Aside from making dietary changes, many men are also looking into natural remedies that would help to prevent or treat BPH and its symptoms, which include frequent urination at night, a constant urge to urinate, difficulty in starting to urinate, difficulty maintaining a steady stream of urine, and difficulty in completely emptying the bladder.

Saw palmetto has long been touted as a natural herbal remedy for prostate enlargement. Some studies have shown results in which saw palmetto apparently reduced gland swelling and improved symptoms over several weeks. But a more recent study published in 2006 has cast doubt on the previous studies’ results, with clinical tests showing that saw palmetto appears to have no better effect than a placebo. There are sure to be further studies, but in the meantime it is difficult to say whether saw palmetto can still be considered an effective herbal remedy for BPH.

Another natural remedy is pygeum bark extract, which comes from the plant Pygeum africanum, a species of evergreen found throughout the African continent. It has been popular in Europe, especially France, for treating prostate conditions in older men. In this case, clinical studies agree with traditional medicine, and show that pygeum bark extract is effective in improving symptoms of BPH. However, the pygeum plant has long been overharvested and is currently endangered, although conservation efforts are ongoing.

Stinging nettle roots are yet another natural remedy for BPH, and clinical studies have shown these to be effective in relieving prostate enlargement symptoms, although it does not appear to actually reduce gland swelling.

In the end, the best natural approach to BPH is to prevent it from occurring, by consuming a diet rich in nutrients that are known to have a preventative effect on prostate enlargement. Lycopene is especially effective, and it is found in tomatoes and tomato products (ketchup, tomato sauce, etc.), as well as in pink grapefruit, watermelon, and guava. Vitamins D and E are also considered beneficial in preventing BPH and prostate cancer. Daily consumption of pomegranate juice may also be helpful, as a 2006 study has shown that it slows the rate of progress of prostate cancer.

Do yourself a favor, learn the various ways of preventing prostate cancer. Check out my tips and articles at
http://prostatehealthcare.info/

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Sex After Prostate Cancer

If ever you need a good reason to get a prostate cancer screening this is it. SEX, for many men, seems to define who we are as people. So the question about the possibility of having sex after being diagnosed with prostate cancer is of interest to many.

From a high level, there are four basic stages of prostate cancer in the earlier you are diagnosed with it, the more treatment options are available and they're less likely to have a negative impact on your sex life.

The earlier you're diagnosed, the better it is for your life, sex life, and survival. Testing should begin when the typical man is about 50. The two tests include the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test, which is a simple blood test and the DRE or digital rectal examination. This should be done annually for all men after age 50 if only to develop a baseline number and history for future diagnostic information

If however any of your direct relatives, father, brother or uncles have had prostate cancer, you should be tested and have the annual exam starting around age 40. This is also a good idea if you're black. There are indications that black Americans are at higher risk of contracting prostate cancer and should be checked starting between 40-50 years old.

Most of the time, men do not need to worry about prostate cancer if these tests are done regularly as part of an annual physical work up. This is because as cancers go, prostate cancer is relatively slow growing. Make no mistake however, cancer is the second leading cause of death in men after heart disease. And prostate cancer is the second most frequent cancer contracted by men.

This type of information should be sickening for you if you're a man or know and love a man. The second highest cancer cause of death is the highly treatable prostate cancer. Why? Well, men do have a tendency to ignore their health much more than women. Waiting until Prostate cancer is in the final stages or metastasizes is almost a death wish.

The diagnostic process for prostate cancer is a PSA test followed by a biopsy if deemed necessary. The biopsy will then be analyzed and a Gleason score will be assigned. Many factors are involved in the decision to treat or even not treat prostate cancer. Your age, interest in sex, medical and family history along with test results are all used by you and your doctor to determine the correct course of action.

Prostate cancer doesn't mean the end of your sex life. It means that you have cancer that needs to be monitored closely and treated appropriately. Having prostate cancer doesn't stop a healthy sex life. Dying however does!

So, talk to your doctor and schedule a prostate exam and blood test. It's the best thing you can do to assure a healthy and long lived sex life.

Abigail Franks has written many articles on the subject of prostate cancer. On her site you can find valuable information about Sex after prostate cancer and
Prostate Cancer

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Frequently Asked Questions About Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Cancer is a scary diagnosis. Whether you are a man or a woman, cancer is a real threat. For men, one of the most common forms of cancer is metastatic prostate cancer. It is very important that men have regular prostate screening and if tumors or cancer is present, to seek immediate medical attention. Here are some commonly asked questions regarding metastatic prostate cancer.

What is metastatic prostate cancer?

Metastatic prostate cancer is simply put cancer of the prostate. While some men find their cancer in the early stages, other men are already in the late stages of cancer when it is finally diagnosed. Cancer is caused by the abnormal growth of cells in the body. For men that suffer from metastatic prostate cancer, these cells begin the in the prostate gland and can spread to other parts of the body.

What are the symptoms of metastatic prostate cancer?

One of the first noticeable symptoms associated with prostate cancer is an abnormal growth or tumor in the prostate gland. Symptoms of this type of cancer can also include weight loss, problems with urinating (usually urine retention), localized pain, and anemia. It is important to remember that in its earliest stages, most men have no symptoms related to metastatic prostate cancer. As the tumor grows, the symptoms may begin to appear.

Who is at risk for prostate cancer?

Despite what you may think, not just older men get metastatic prostate cancer. Even young and apparently healthy men are at risk for prostate cancer. However, it should be noted that men over the age of 50 are more at risk, as are African-American men. Asian men seem to have the lowest risk of prostate cancer. In addition, if you have a close relative that has suffered from metastatic prostate cancer, then you are at a right risk of developing problems.

How is metastatic cancer found?

Prostate cancer requires a full medical examination by a doctor. If your doctor suspects that you may be at risk for cancer, he or she will examine your prostate and look for abnormal growths or tumors. A prostate antigen specific blood test will also look for cancer cells in the body. If the count is high, then there is a good chance you have prostate cancer. Another test that is routinely performed is a prostate biopsy. This is the most thorough way of determining whether or not you have metastatic prostate cancer.

You can also find more information at Prostate Cancer New Treatment and Prostate Exam .
http://www.prostatecancertreatmenthelp.com/ is a comprehensive resource to know more about prostate cancer treatment.

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An Outline Of Enlarged Prostate Treatment

The first question that you need to ask when it comes to enlarged prostate treatment is whether or not you should treat the condition at all.

Once the condition has been diagnosed by your doctor (an important step to make sure that the symptoms that you are experiencing are due to an enlarged prostate and not something else), you will need to decide whether or not the condition is bothering you. If it isn’t, then for many men, the answer is not to treat it at all but simply to let your doctor check the condition for you every few months.

If, however, you are bothered by the symptoms, or your doctor feels that there is a risk of developing complications from the problem, then enlarged prostate treatment should be sought.

The first line of defense will be drug treatment and there are a number of drugs currently in use and others under active testing and development. On the whole drug treatment will not cure the condition but it can give relief from the symptoms of a swollen prostate. You will need to discuss drug treatment with your doctor as many patients in the age group for which an enlarged prostate is common will already be on drug treatment for other conditions. Your doctor will also discuss the range of likely side effects which enlarged prostate treatment drugs carry with them.

If you are not felt suitable for drug treatment (or you doctor does not feel that drug treatment will be effective in your case) then the next step is to consider minimally invasive surgery. There are a range of procedures available today some of which can be undertaken on a day-patient basis and some of which will require a short stay in hospital. In most cases minimally invasive surgery is designed to shrink the prostate gland or to remove prostate tissue from the area around the urethra and thus ease constriction on the urethra and restore the flow of urine from the bladder.

If these forms of treatment are not suitable, or have been tried and proved ineffective, then enlarged prostate treatment will move on to surgery. Two commonly performed operations are the TURP and TUIP both of which can be carried out laparoscopically or using robot technology and require a stay in hospital of between 2 and 3 days. In other cases, and especially where the prostate is exceptionally enlarged, traditional open surgery may be performed with hospitalization typically lasting about a week.

For additional information on enlarged prostate treatment please visit
Prostate Cancer Explained

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January 13, 2008

The Benefits of Prostate Massage

Prostate massage is a healthy and pleasurable activity that can be enjoyed as part of your intimate life. Quite simply, prostate massage stimulates the prostate with a finger or massage tool with the intention of relaxation and/or pleasure. This is an intimate skill that can be learned and shared by lovers in the privacy of their own home.

The prostate is a gland, located just below the bladder and sheathed in the musculature of the pelvic floor, the same muscles that contract during orgasm and ejaculation. The urethra runs from the bladder, directly through the prostate gland and out through the penis. The prostate gland plays a central role in the male sexual system. Within the gland, tiny ducts called acini produce prostatic fluid. This fluid mixes with sperm and fluid from the seminal vesicles to become the male ejaculate. Prostate health is essential for lifelong sexual pleasure and function.

Regular ejaculations keep the prostate healthy by stimulating production of fresh prostatic fluid and bringing fresh blood to the area. Fresh blood flow brings the nutrients and oxygen cells needed to remain healthy and replicate normally. White blood cells are immune-system powerhouses, fighting infections at the cellular level. The prostate is more likely to become infected or cancerous when blood flow is constricted from muscular tension and lack of stimulation.

Prostate massage manually stimulates the prostate gland, flushing fluid from the gland and encouraging blood flow to the entire pelvis. This can be a highly stimulating or profoundly relaxing experience. As an added bonus, releasing chronic constriction in the pelvis can enhance erections by allowing more blood flow into the penis during arousal. Some men notice dramatic changes in their erectile function after exploring prostate massage. In fact, up to two-thirds of a man's penis can be situated internally. Sometimes, erections become weaker or smaller overtime because chronic constriction in the pelvic muscles limit blood flow to the penis and keep the penis contracted inside the body. Massage of the perineum and prostate can allow these muscles to relax, and a higher volume of blood can reach the penis.

Prostate massage is only one part of a healthy lifestyle. You may be hearing a lot about things like lycopene and phytoestrogens- plant compounds that are currently a hot topic in medical research. Studies are taking a close look at the exact actions and potential of food-based compounds and the early findings are very promising. Prostate health is supported by those foods with anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and hormone balancing properties. A healthy diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards supporting lifelong prostate health.

This article is not intended as medical advice or diagnosis. Prostate massage is different from the medical procedure digital rectal exam as performed by a medical professional. If you are experiencing any pain or changes in your pelvis, seek medical assistance. Prostate massage is considered a healthy activity for all men who are not experiencing severe symptoms of a prostate condition.

http://www.thehealthyprostate.com/
TheHealthyProstate.com is a project of The Mechanics of Men, LLC, owned and operated by sex educators Christine Fawley and Charlotte Goodman-Smith. The Mechanics of Men, LLC strives to offer clear, concise and pleasurable online sex education. Our educational websites offer stunning visuals, hands-on guidance and practical strategies to motivate our members to more fully enjoy the potential of human sexuality.

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January 3, 2008

Prostate Cancer - America Unites To Battle Disease

September has been designated as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month throughout the United States. "I...do hereby proclaim September 2007 as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month," said President George W. Bush, in a proclamation dated August 21. "All Americans can raise awareness and help fight this disease by talking with their friends and families about the risk of prostate cancer and the ways to prevent, detect, and treat it."

The recent passing of television mogul Merv Griffin in August, is certain to have an impact on awareness of this disease throughout the world.

"The passing of Merv Griffin will help put a face on prostate cancer, and will shed light on the gravity of this disease," said Richard N. Atkins, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of the National Prostate Cancer Coalition. "NPCC is dedicated to increasing overall awareness, education, and research funding so more men will have a fighting chance to beat prostate cancer."

Along with the NPCC, President Bush encouraged all American's to find a way to increase awareness in of prostate cancer, and increase our vast abilities in order to find a cure for this disease.

"I call upon government officials, businesses, communities, health care professional, educators and the people of the United States to reaffirm our nations strong and ongoing commitment to the fight against prostate cancer," said Bush. "America leads the world in medical research, and we are committed to continuing our progress in the search for a cure of prostate cancer.

by Victor S. Harris
Simply Seniors News staff
http://www.SimplySeniorsNews.com

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Are There Any Early Symptoms? Prostate Cancer Early Development

Like many other cancers, there are no typical early symptoms. Prostate cancer is not usually noticed when the tumor begins growing in the prostate. Complaints caused by the disease don't begin until relatively later stages.

Benign tumors usually grow on the inner side of the prostate. It constricts the urethra very quickly and makes itself known in the early stages through bladder emptying disorders.

Malignant tumors however usually develop on the outer zone of the prostate. This is why there are usually no complaints in the early stage. Only in the advanced stages of prostate cancer does the prostate grow enough to constrict the urethra. The consequences of this are frequent urination, especially at night, strong urges for urination and impotence.

Remember though that not every urination problem is a signal of prostate cancer. Benign prostate hyperplasia, or a benign tumor, is much more likely. Prostate inflammation or a urinary tract infection will also create similar symptoms.

If the tumor grows beyond the prostate, some pain might be felt in the genital area. Blood is often found in the urine or in semen. Sometimes the cancer will spread to the bone, specially in the area of the lumbar spine, which can be especially painful. Bone metastases are found in 6 out of 10 men with advanced prostate cancer.

Further associated symptoms are fever, fatigue, and unwanted weight loss. The earlier the cancer is detected, the better the chances of survival. Therefore, even if you have no symptoms, you should begin getting regular checkups to prevent any future problems.

Are you looking for information about early symptoms prostate cancer? For more important information on prostate cancer symptoms, the prostate gland, and prostate cancer prevention and treatments, please visit http://www.onlineprostatehealth.com for more information.

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Crucial Prostate Cancer Info That All Men Should Learn About

The prostate exists only in men. It is a small gland about the size of walnut, located underneath the bladder. Shaped somewhat like a donut, it surrounds the urethra -- the tube that transports urine from your bladder. The main job of the prostate is to produce seminal fluid, which protects and nourishes sperm after ejaculation.

Prostate cancer has recently become known as the most common form of cancer in males throughout Western society. Oftentimes, treatment is unnecessary since the disease grows rather slowly. This is unlike other forms of cancer that usually grow and spread quickly. However, prostate cancer can also spread to other parts of the body, including the bones which can cause pain.

The difficulty or inability to pass urine, especially at night, is one of the most prominent symptoms of prostate cancer. There may also be small amounts of blood found in the urine, or a weak urine stream. Other symptoms can be pain or discomfort in the upper thighs, hips and lower back.

These symptoms however may not necessarily represent prostate cancer; they can be a result of other less serious conditions too. But if you do have any of these symptoms, it is always best to consult your physician for a reliable diagnosis.

The causes of prostate cancer have still not been fully determined by research. However, a small number of cases have been linked to exposure to high levels of radiation. Genetics also appear to play a large part. Prostate cancer often shows up more than once among related males in the same family. Therefore if you have a family history of the disease, be sure to get regular health exams to detect the problem early. One thing to note is that prostate cancer rarely develops in men below the age of 50, but the risk rises significantly after that -- roughly 50% of all prostate cancer cases occur after the age of 75.

Although still inconclusive, current research suggests that a diet high in fats may increase the risk of prostate cancer, whereas a Vitamin E rich diet (tomatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and broccoli) can lower the risk. But even if a healthier diet doesn't actually reduce your risk of prostate cancer, your general health will improve, which will in turn make the prevention and treatment of diseases more successful.

Some believe that a vasectomy might increase the risk of prostate cancer, but as of now there is no research that supports this assumption. Some studies though have shown that 200 mcg of selenium taken every day may reduce the risk of the disease.

Like other forms of cancer, successful treatment depends upon early diagnosis. As the cancer becomes more advanced, a cure becomes more difficult. Every man above the age of 50 should come to understand the signs of prostate cancer and consult a doctor if any symptoms are present. Some of the tests that are administered in order to detect prostate cancer are:

Rectal Examination

The size and shape of the prostate is manually examined from the rectum by the insertion of a gloved and lubricated finger.

Ultrasound

The size and shape of the prostate gland is analyzed from the rectum by the insertion of a small probe.

PSA Blood Test

A blood test that looks for higher than normal levels of Prostate Specific Anitgens (PSA).

Biopsy

A small tissue sample is removed from the prostate by a needle inserted into the rectum with a small probe.

X-Ray

This is used to determine if the cancer has spread and is present in places such as the surrounding bones.

Are you looking for prostate cancer info? For more important information on prostate cancer, the prostate gland, and prostate cancer prevention and treatments, please visit http://www.onlineprostatehealth.com for more information.

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Prostate Cancer - Harmful Effects

Men's proficiency declines with age - as probably the reason why nature deems it to be so that one is more prone to diseases and becomes less immune to sickness as one ages. Prostate problems symptoms are mainly evident to those at 40 years and above. It is at these points of a man's life that such will be experienced.

Prostate Problems common in males:

It can be notes that most of the cases of the disease are found among older men who are 40 years old and above but the cases are more apparent among men who are more than 65 years old. The racial origin of a man might make him vulnerable to the disease.

The prostate is a male sex gland that helps in the critical functions of urination and sperm ejaculation. As man grows older, the prostate usually enlarges as well. During such time, prostate problems start to emerge. The condition may be BPH (benign prostatic hypertrophy) or may be a worse one - being prostate cancer.

Prostate Problems:

The Prostate Problems include difficulty of urinating - as the urethra where the urine passes is blocked by the enlarged prostate. Can you imagine this situation? You have the urge to urinate but yet you find it hard to take a leak. And if you are able to do so, there is some pain felt in the process. Prostate problems can be remedied with certain types of prostate medication. However, doctors do not recommend single prostate medication. When doctors prescribe prostate medication they consider factors other than the type of Prostate Problems like age of the patient, presence of other disease, and possible benefits and the hidden risks of the type of the prostate medication, and the cost of the treatment.

Conditions of Prostate Problems:

Prostate problems symptoms from a BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) to prostate cancer are conditions men have wished they had the power to get over. Prostate Problems include blood in the urine, and impotence. Complications on the liver and the lungs are also to be expected, as prostate cancer develops.

Dealing with prostate problems symptoms has never been easy. The organs involved provide for male vital functions. The symptoms affect the very core of what men is about and thus the depression that usually sets in. Prostate unlike any other organs of the human body, under normal circumstances, is affected by ageing. Not only it is mentally burdening and physically degenerating, it is financially debilitating as well.

Understanding the cause or the risk factor of the disease will help in making better informed decisions about the treatment of prostate cancer. If detected in its earlier stage the patient has bigger chances of recovering from the disease. Knowing these risk factors should prompt one to take on a healthy lifestyle - eating right and incorporating exercise into one's schedule. Early medical check up will give you the advantage of early detection and treatment of prostate cancer. The earlier the treatment, the more chances of success and the quicker your recovery.

You can also find more info on detect prostate cancer and cancer new treatment. Prostatecancertreatmenthelp.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about prostate cancer treatment.

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4 of the Latest Treatment on Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer causes a lot of fear in men throughout the world. However, unlike other forms of the disease, prostate cancer is easily treatable when diagnosed early. Below are 4 common prostate cancer treatments that can improve your quality of life or completely cure you of the disease altogether.

Cryotherapy

When cryotherapy was first introduced it took some time for it to become as popular as it is today. People's views have changed about this treatment and it is now considered a very efficient method of treating prostate cancer. Cryotherapy is administered by treating the affected area with liquid argon. Liquid argon is extremely cold and destroys cancerous cells only, leaving the surrounding living tissue unharmed. This treatment option has very few side effects, but to some they may seem somewhat troubling -- such as sexual dysfunction.

Radiation Treatment

Many years ago, radiation treatment was the most popular prostate cancer treatment. But as technology and knowledge have advanced, this treatment is becoming less common. Radiation treatment comes with a slew of side effects and a relatively low success rate. Another downside to this treatment is the fact that a patient only has one chance at radiation treatment. Otherwise, radiation dosages become too high and can make a patient's health even worse.

Androgen Deprivation Therapy

This treatment option used to be done with the use of a surgical procedure called orchidectomy. However, now it can be administered through the use of a hormone drug. The drug controls the production and release of testosterone, or prevents testosterone in the body from metabolizing into dihydrotestosterone. These hormones can have an adverse effect on prostate cancer, so controlling their production is very important. Because this treatment is so non-invasive, it is very popular among prostate cancer patients.

Radical Prostatectomy

Radical prostatectomy is the most successful treatment option. However, this treatment surgically removes the entire prostate from the patient's body. It is therefore usually considered as a last resort since it very likely results in total impotence and urine incontinence. If the cancer has not yet spread to other parts of the body, this procedure is almost guaranteed to work, but the extreme side effects of it are also guaranteed.

Are you looking for information about latest treatment on prostate cancer? For more important information on prostate cancer, the prostate gland, and prostate cancer prevention and treatments, please visit http://www.onlineprostatehealth.com for more information.

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Detecting Prostate Cancer Symptoms Early

It is still unknown what really causes prostate cancer but several risk factors have been discovered like family history, race, age or high fat diet.

Having a screening examination at fixed intervals is important to detect the cancer early. Looking for symptoms yourself is not enough because you can not detect it early enough. Once you have prostate cancer symptoms already, it is (too) late already. After the disease has broken out already, you could have symptoms like weak or interrupted urine flow, blood in the urine or a pain in the back, thighs or hips. There could also be a burning sensation.

It could be a matter of life or dead to detect the cancer as early as possible. The earlier the treatment starts the greater the chances of survival. This can be cured but only when it hasn't spread too much already.

The doctor will also put his digit into the rectum to feel any lumps in the prostate. If he finds any abnormalities, the doctor will order an blood test to find out if a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is in the blood. While low amounts of PSA are ok, a high amount of PSA is a strong sign for cancer. A trans rectal ultrasound examination is another option. This painless method gives a good picture of the gland within 20 minutes.

A biopsy is needed once the above tests indicate the occurrence of cancer. That means that the doctor must take a small sample of the tissue by using a needle. The sample is then checked under a microscope and if the sample is cancerous it is an exact diagnosis. The biopsy itself is a quick and rather painless method to diagnose prostate cancer.

Once it is detected, the doctor must find out how much it has spread already. An x-ray can show if the cancer has reached the lungs already. A computer tomography or magnetic resonance imaging can also make internal organs visible. Once it is diagnosed the treatment must start immediately. There are several different treatment options but still the surgery is the most effective way to totally remove the cancer. The treatment will need a team of doctors, an urologist, a surgeon and an oncologist. The surgery is not without risks and side effects so that some prefer alternative ways.

A good prognosis with a high survival rate of 95% can be given when it was detected very early and the surgery was successful. However, the later the cancer was diagnosed, the worse the statistics get. Less than 30% survive the next five years after the cancer was detected very late.
Early detection of prostate cancer symptoms and prostate cancer can save your life.

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An Overview of the 4 Prostate Cancer Stages

Finding out which prostate cancer stage you might have is the key to your treatment options. The most common system of determining one's stage is the four-stage TNM system, also known as Tumor/Nodes/Metastases system. There are four prostate cancer treatment stages, and the severity is higher as the number goes up.

If your prostate cancer is limited to the prostate (Stages I and II) and it is well or moderately differentiated (a Gleason score of 7 or below), the 5-year outcome is considered excellent for all three treatment options: watchful waiting, surgery, or radiation therapy. Stage I describes the cancer, which has been found through a biopsy or an elevated PSA levels.

Stage II (sometimes referred to as stage B) is when tumor cells are found in less than 5 percent of prostate tissue removed, and the cells are more aggressive in nature, or the tumor is larger in size, but is confined to the prostate gland. It describes the cancer that is still located inside the patient's prostate gland.

Stage III (sometimes referred to as stage C) is when the tumor has grown through the capsule which surrounds the prostate gland, and may involve seminal vesicles (tubes that carry sperm). It describes a cancer that has spread beyond the covering of the prostate, which may have grown into 'seminal vesicles' and spread on the patient's tissues and local organs.

Stage IV (sometimes referred to as stage D1 or D2) is when the tumor has spread to other structures beyond the seminal vesicles to any other organ or structure. Stage IV describes a cancer that has already grown and spread into the rectum, pelvic wall, neck of the bladder, lymph nodes, bones, liver, lungs and other parts of the body.
Knowing the stage is important because it helps doctors decide the best treatment. Some treatments are usually better for tackling a particular stage than another.

Treatment

Treatment decisions should be made by a patient and his health service provider. Treatment by watchful waiting, HIFU, radiation therapy, cryosurgery, and surgery are generally offered to men whose cancer remains within the prostate. One possible treatment with anti-testosterone drugs lowers bone density and may lead to a high rate of broken bones. This is called LHRH-agonist therapy and may cause subtle changes in cognition. No treatment is perfect; each has benefits and side effects that you should know about up front so you can make the right decision.

Generally, prostate cancer stages are determined by different tests, such as bone scan, MRI or CT scan and rectal test. The purpose of prostate cancer stages is to know whether the lymph nodes have already been affected by the tumor and whether the tumor has spread beyond the prostate gland. Each of these four stages has sub-stages and a treatment to complement it. This information is important to help doctors decide the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

Are you looking for information about prostate cancer stages? For more important information on prostate cancer, the prostate gland, and natural prostate cancer treatments, please visit http://www.onlineprostatehealth.com for more information.

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