January 18, 2008

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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