Most prostate cancer is diagnosed in men older than 65.

AT RISK
 
All men over age 50
Men with a family history of prostate cancer (a father or brother with prostate cancer more than doubles the risk)

RISK REDUCTION AND EARLY DETECTION
 
Eat foods containing lycopene: tomatoes, tomato products, red grapefruit, watermelon or apricots.
Eat foods containing selenium: light tuna, cod, beef, oatmeal or whole wheat bread.
Watch your intake of calcium: diets high in calcium may increase risk.

Talk to your health care professional about screening. Some experts encourage men at average risk to have these tests annually, beginning at age 50:
 
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test
DRE (Digital Rectal Examination)

SYMPTOMS

In the early stages, there are usually no symptoms. Some men experience symptoms that include:
 
 
Urinary problems (not being able to urinate, having trouble starting or stopping urine flow, having a weak or interrupted urine flow, feeling pain or a burning sensation while urinating)
Blood in the urine
Painful or difficult erection
Pain in lower back, pelvis or upper thighs
Urinary symptoms may also be caused by other health problems, including BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia).

TREATMENT

Treatment options vary, depending on stage of the cancer and other medical conditions of the individual.
 
Treatments include surgery, radiation or hormone therapy. Sometimes treatments are combined.
 
“Watchful waiting” may be an option if the possible risks of treatment seem greater than its possible benefits. This option should be open to reassessment, as a man's condition or concerns may change.