Understanding Prostate Health

Understanding Prostate Health The prostate gland, commonly referred to as “the prostate,” is found just beneath the male bladder and surrounds the urethra (urine tube). This gland produces a fluid that makes up one- third of the volume of semen, the liquid that carries and protects sperm cells on their way to trying to penetrate the female egg and create a pregnancy. The semen helps the sperm cells survive in the acidic environment of the vaginal canal. Prostate Health Prostatitis Prostate cancer Research has suggested a relationship between Prostatitis is an inflammation of the Prostate cancer usually begins prostate cancer and several factors: prostate. Sometimes it begins as a to grow upon the outer regions urinary tract infection but will then of the prostate gland. The • Age. Prostate cancer incidence increases with move into the prostate. The infection aggressiveness of the cancer age. Prostate cancer is rare in men younger can be either acute (sudden and can be estimated by its size than age 40, but occurs in 1 in 6 men in their dramatic) or chronic (ongoing, with on discovery, the degree of lifetime. less intense symptoms). abnormality of the cells in the Race. tumor, and the extent of its • Men of African descent have the highest Symptoms of acute prostatitis spread. risk; men of Asian descent, the lowest. • Burning with urination • Diet. A nutritious, balanced diet contributes to • Frequent urination Symptoms of late-stage prostate health. • Fever and chills prostate cancer • Pain above the bladder, in the • Weight loss Genetics. • A man is at increased risk if a lower back, or between the • Bone pain family member had prostate cancer, and that testicles and rectum • Inability to empty bladder risk rises if multiple family members had it. • Often discomfort with urination Note: Early-stage prostate cancer Prostate cancer screening with a PSA and or ejaculation displays no symptoms. digital rectal exam (DRE) is recommended for men starting at age 50. (Screening at age 40 Enlarged prostate—benign The PSA test is recommended for men of African descent prostatic hyperplasia The prostate-specific antigen or those with a family history.) In a DRE, the (BPH) (PSA) test is used to screen doctor uses a gloved and lubricated finger to feel for prostate cancer. However, As a man ages, the prostate gland through the rectal wall and examine the surface an elevated PSA may indicate tends to gradually increase in size. As of the prostate. cancer, infection or benign it enlarges, it may begin to press on enlargement. This test should and narrow the urethra (urine tube), be used along with a digital When to call a doctor creating pressure that can lead to rectal exam to screen for • Ongoing weakened or interrupted urine flow difficulty starting, maintaining and cancer. A recent, multi- • Frequent urination, especially at night stopping a forceful flow of urine. country randomized trial has • Inability to urinate, or difficulty starting or Symptoms of BPH shown that PSA screenings stopping urination • Diminished force and caliber of the reduce prostate cancer-specific • Blood in the urine urine stream mortality. • Painful or burning urination • Unusually frequent urination • Continuing pain in lower back, abdomen, (awaking frequently to urinate at pelvis or upper thighs night) • Urgent need to urinate Disclaimer/Disclosure: © 2011 Johns Hopkins University. All rights reserved. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen..

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