Like other cancers, the cause of prostate cancer is not known; it appears to be more common in African American men and men with a family history of the disease. Prostate cancer is normally a slow growth cancer that can take years before it becomes deadly. Simply put, cancer that grows in the prostate gland is called prostate cancer.

The prostate is a small, walnut-sized structure that makes up part of a man's reproductive system; it wraps around the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body - because of this can cause various urinary problems. If you have prostate cancer, are concerned about getting it, or if you're looking out for the health of someone you love, this article can help. The second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the U.S. is from prostate cancer.

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease are bone pain or tenderness, and abdominal pain. One of the most common symptoms is the inability to urinate, get checked right away. Some men will experience symptoms that might indicate the presence of prostate cancer.

The need to urinate frequently, especially at night is another symptom. Most prostate cancer symptoms, although associated with prostate cancer, are more likely to be connected to non-cancerous conditions. One prostate cancer symptom is difficulty starting urination or holding back urine.

Your doctor may use either one or two of the most common tests for prostate cancer detection. The decision about whether to pursue a PSA test should be based on a discussion between you and your doctor. A chest x-ray may be done to see if there's a spread of cancer.

There are several potential downsides to PSA testing; for example a high PSA does not always mean a patient has prostate cancer. A prostate gland biopsy usually confirms the diagnosis. A PSA test with a high level can also be from a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland.

Surgery, radiation, hormonal therapy and chemotherapy all have significant side effects; know fully what they are before you proceed. Medicines can be used to adjust the levels of testosterone; called hormonal manipulation. If chemotherapy is decided upon after the first round of chemotherapy, most men receive further doses on an outpatient basis at a clinic or physician's office.

Urinary incontinence can be one of the possible complications of surgery. Thoroughly discuss all your treatment options and concerns with your doctor and other health professionals; it never hurts to get a second or even third opinion or more if necessary - don't be afraid to ask. Chemotherapy medications are often used to treat prostate cancers that are resistant to hormonal treatments.

Be aware that some men choose natural treatment options and forgo any surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. Surgery is usually only recommended after thorough evaluation and discussion of all available treatment options. Surgery, called a radical prostatectomy, removes the entire prostate gland and some of the surrounding tissues.

OHSU is beginning a study of acupuncture as a treatment for hot flashes for men with prostate cancer or prostate cancer survivors. Many men simply want the best treatment they can get but what's important is choosing the best treatment for you. The conventional treatment of prostate cancer is often controversial.

If you're not already doing so, make a serious effort to watch your diet closely. Use flaxseed oil or walnut oil in your daily dark green salad. Eat high-fiber snacks like raw nuts (soak them overnight first), raw seeds, and dried fruit, such as dates, and figs.

Making a ginger tea, by adding a thin slice or two of fresh gingerroot to hot water, is helpful to many people I know. Eat foods that contain the essential fatty acids. For natural treatment for the prostate make an appointment with a naturopathic doctor, called a naturopath; ask around for referrals.

Buy lacinato kale and juice it in your juicer with sweet carrots. Add a small handful of kale or spinach to your fruit smoothie and blend-- know one will ever know. Make highly nutritious raw applesauce using a food processor and put in 3-4 cored pesticide-free apples, with the skin on, and mix for a minute; so much better for you than canned highly processed applesauce and add 1/4 tsp. cinnamon or two tablespoons of freshly ground flaxseed for another boost.

While the number of men diagnosed with prostate cancer remains high, survival rates are also greatly improving; perhaps because of dietary improvement. The one thing that you should not do however is rely on information obtained from the Internet to make your final decision; double-check everything. Make sure to read everything you can about natural and conventional treatment online and offline.