Prostate Cancer Specialist

What are the causes of prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer occurs when something changes the DNA in your prostate’s cells, triggering either overproduction of cells or deactivation of tumor-suppressing genes. The result is an excessive rate of cell growth with limited checks or controls.

Some genetic mutations are inherited, which is why you have an elevated risk of developing prostate cancer if a close family member also had the disease. Other genetic mutations are acquired, meaning they occur during your lifetime.

Researchers believe that exposure to certain chemicals or radiation can cause cellular damage that leads to prostate cancer. Excessive testosterone levels can also pose a risk, as can uncontrolled inflammation in your prostate gland.

How important is early detection of prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting American men, so early detection is essential to your health. Very often, prostate cancer presents no symptoms in the early stages, which is why screening is critical.

Urologists use a combination of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening and digital rectal exams to search for signs of prostate cancer. These tests become more important as you age, and your doctor at Midtown Urology Associates can assess your risk level and determine when screening is appropriate.

If these tests reveal signs of prostate cancer, a biopsy is usually the next step. If cancer is present, an evaluation of the number of cancerous cells relative to healthy cells follows.

What are the treatment options for prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer develops very slowly, and research shows that many older men experience no ill effects from the disease. If your cancer is still in the earliest stages, your doctor at Midtown Urology Associates helps you decide which treatment approach is right for your needs.

Very often, watchful waiting is the preferred approach and involves returning to your doctor for regular screenings that show how the cancer is progressing. In other cases, a conventional surgical procedure known as nerve-sparing can remove cancerous cells while preserving your ability to achieve and maintain an erection.

In cases where cancer has advanced, surgical removal of your prostate gland may be the best treatment option-  the procedure can be conducted through open surgery or a laparoscopic approach.

To learn more, schedule an appointment with Midtown Urology Associates today online or over the phone.