Prostate Cancer Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS A PROSTATE, AND WHAT IS IT'S FUNCTION?
The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland in the male reproductive system located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Its primary role is to produce fluid that forms part of seminal fluid during ejaculation, contributing to both sexual and urinary function. Because it surrounds the urethra (the tube carrying urine from the bladder), prostate health also affects urination.
LOCATION
Between the bladder and the rectum
FUNCTION
Seminal fluid production: Creates the thick fluid component of semen
Urinary role: Can impact urine flow if enlarged
COMMON PROSTATE CONDITIONS
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Non-cancerous enlargement that can squeeze the urethra and cause urinary symptoms
Prostate Cancer: Malignant growth of prostate cells
WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER?
Prostate cancer develops when abnormal prostate cells grow uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to distant organs.
types of prostate growths
Noncancerous (BPH):
Extra prostate tissue squeezes the urethra
Symptoms: difficulty urinating
Not cancerous, doesn’t lead to cancer
Atypical Cells (PIN):
Prostatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia
Not cancer, but may indicate higher future risk
Cancer
Malignant prostate cells invade other tissues
May or may not cause symptoms
Metastatic Cancer:
Cancer spreads to nearby lymph nodes or distance sites (bones, organs)
WHY ARE BLACK MEN AT INCREASED RISK?
Black men are 50 % more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and twice as likely to die from it. Contributing factors include:
Genetic Predisposition
Mutations more common in men of African ancestry
May affect androgen receptors and drive aggressive growth
Socioeconomic & Environmental
Reduced access to healthcare and screenings
Potential exposure to environmental pollutants
Healthcare Disparities
Racial bias leading to lower screening rates (e.g. PSA tests)
Biological Differences
Possible faster-growing tumor biology
Higher average testosterone levels
Other Factors
Obesity and high-fat diets
Migrant studies showing high risk increases after moving to the U.S.
HOW PSA SCREENING WORKS
PSA Test: Measures PSA levels in blood
Elevated PSA: May indicate cancer but also BPH or inflammation
Not Definitive: Normal PSA doesn’t guarantee absence of disease
Recommendations
Shared Decision-Making: Discuss pros/cons with your doctor
Age guidelines:
40-54: Consider if high risk (family history, race)
55-69: Individual decision after discussion
70+: Generally not recommended, though some urologists continue
Weighing Benefits vs. Harms
Potential Benefits: Early detection, improved outcomes
Potential Harms:
False positives → unnecessary biopsies
Overdiagnosis/overtreatment
NEXT STEPS & IMPORTANT NOTES
Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.
If PSA is elevated, further tests (DRE, imaging, biopsy) may be needed.
Understand that PSA is a screening tool, not a definitive diagnosis.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.