Understanding Prostate Cancer and Its Treatments
Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among men in the United States. While survival rates are generally high, understanding prostate cancer, its triggers and how it is treated is essential for making informed health decisions. Let's take a closer look.
Causes of Prostate Cancer
There is no single known cause of prostate cancer. Instead, it develops due to a combination of biological, genetic and environmental factors that lead to abnormal cell growth in the prostate gland.
At its core, prostate cancer begins when DNA inside prostate cells becomes damaged. This damage causes cells to grow and divide faster than normal cells and to live longer than they should. Over time, these abnormal cells can form a tumor. Why this DNA damage happens is not always clear, but several risk factors increase the likelihood.
- Age is the most important factor. Prostate cancer is uncommon in younger men and becomes much more likely as men age, particularly after age 50. Most diagnoses occur in men over 65.
- Genetics and family history also play a major role. Men with a father, brother or close male relative who had prostate cancer are at higher risk. Certain inherited gene changes can increase susceptibility, even though most men with prostate cancer do not have a strong family history.
- Race and ethnicity are significant contributors. In the United States, African American men are more likely to develop prostate cancer and are more likely to have aggressive forms of the disease. The reasons are not fully understood but may involve genetic, environmental and healthcare access factors.
- Diet and long-term lifestyle habits may contribute to prostate cancer development. Diets high in red meat, processed foods and high-fat dairy products have been linked to increased risk, while diets rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains may lower risk.
Triggers That Can Promote Cancer Growth
While risk factors increase the chance of developing prostate cancer, triggers are conditions that may encourage existing cancer cells to grow or spread more quickly.
- One major trigger is hormonal activity, especially testosterone. Prostate cancer cells often rely on male hormones (androgens) to grow. Higher or prolonged exposure to these hormones can fuel cancer progression.
- Chronic inflammation of the prostate, sometimes caused by infections or long-term irritation, may also contribute to cancer growth by damaging cells over time.
- Obesity and lack of physical activity are linked to more aggressive prostate cancers. Excess body fat can affect hormone levels and increase inflammation in the body, both of which may help cancer cells thrive.
- Smoking does not appear to strongly increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, but it has been linked to worse outcomes and higher chances of cancer returning after treatment.
Importantly, early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms, which means growth can occur silently for years. This makes regular medical checkups and discussions about screening especially important for men at higher risk.
Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer
Treatment for prostate cancer depends on how advanced the cancer is, how fast it is growing and the patient’s age and overall health. Many men have more than one treatment option.
Active Surveillance
For slow-growing cancers that are unlikely to cause harm, doctors may recommend active surveillance. This involves regular PSA tests, physical exams, imaging and occasional biopsies. Treatment is delayed unless the cancer shows signs of progression. This approach helps avoid unnecessary side effects.
Surgery
Surgical removal of the prostate (prostatectomy) is a common option for cancer that is confined to the prostate. Surgery can be very effective but may lead to side effects such as urinary leakage or erectile dysfunction, depending on the individual case.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It may be delivered from outside the body or from radioactive sources placed inside the prostate. Radiation is often used as an alternative to surgery or after surgery if cancer cells remain.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy lowers testosterone levels or blocks their effects, slowing cancer growth. It is commonly used for advanced cancer or cancer that has spread beyond the prostate. Hormone therapy may cause side effects such as fatigue, weight gain and reduced sex drive.
Advanced Treatments
For cancers that spread or stop responding to hormone therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy or newer drug treatments may be used. These treatments focus on slowing progression and improving quality of life rather than cure.
Prostate cancer develops due to a mix of age, genetics, hormones and lifestyle factors. While many triggers are beyond a man’s control, understanding them helps guide screening and treatment decisions. With a wide range of treatment options available, prostate cancer is often manageable—especially when addressed early and thoughtfully.