Men have a gland called a prostate gland, walnut sized. The prostate gland produces the seminal fluid by which sperm are ejaculated. It is found just in front of the bladder, and is wrapped around the urethra, which carries urine out of the bladder. It sits against the outer sidewall of the rectum or anus.

In recent years, prostate problems have become increasingly common, especially in the United States and Europe.

Men of any age can develop prostate conditions, although most men affected are over 60 years of age.

Is There a Prostate Disease Epidemic?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is very common in men between the ages of 60 and 70. About 50% of men in this age group have BPH. When a man reaches the age of 70, his chances of having BPH and its symptoms jump to 90%.

Prostate Cancer

The causes of prostate cancer aren't known, but lifestyle, diet, genetics, race and age all play a part in whether or not a man develops prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer occurs most commonly in men who are over 45 years of age and of European or American dissent. Those who are from southern or eastern Asia are least likely to suffer from prostate cancer.

Every year, about 250,000 new cases of prostate cancer are diagnosed in the United States, with about 30,000 of these patients dying of prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is very curable if found early. Nonetheless, the cancer can cause impotence and incontinence, which are psychologically and physically problematic for most men.

Prostatitis

Any man of any age can develop prostatitis.

Its symptoms include:

·Problems attaining or keeping an erection

·Frequent urination, especially at night

·Difficulty passing urine

·Passing small amounts of blood in the urine

·Pain while urinating

What can you do?

Of course, prostate conditions such as prostatitis, BPH or prostate cancer have many awful effects. Some can result in death, yet many men do not pay attention and gain knowledge of their own bodies so as to prevent or at least minimize these diseases and the impact they can have on their lives.

Men should pay attention to these and other conditions that may affect them. If they don't, they could suffer serious consequences, especially if there are symptoms they don't pay attention to in time to catch something early enough to cure it.

If you're a man who doesn't think it can happen to you, think again. It can. If you have pain in your lower abdominal region or have any of the other symptoms described above, make a visit to your doctor. It can save you some very significant discomfort at the very least, and may even save your life.

Disclaimer: All content within this articles is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. Always consult your own doctor if you're in any way concerned about your health