Prostate cancer is the most common cause of death from cancer for men over the age of 75, but can be developed in men of any age.

Am I At Risk?

There are certain factors that can put you at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer. African-American men are typically more likely to develop it, as well as men who are older than 60 and those with a family history of prostate cancer. Consuming an excessive amount of alcohol or fat can also increase your chances. Studies have shown that prostate cancer is less common in vegetarians, or men who consume little to no meat.

How Will I Know?

There are a few tests that can be administered to detect prostate cancer, which is why getting a yearly physical is critical to your health. However, there are signs that may let you know that prostate cancer has developed. If you have a delayed or slow start to your urinary stream, leakage of urine or blood in your urine or semen, you should contact your physician immediately. Unexplained pain or tenderness in your lower back or pelvic bones is also a sign that prostate cancer may have developed.

What Are The Treatment Options?

There are actually a variety of treatment options for prostate cancer. Your physician, of course, will be able to assess your specific situation and help decide what will be best for you and your successful recovery. Typically, for early stage prostate cancer, surgery to remove the prostate and radiation therapy will be necessary. If the cancer has spread, you may also require hormone therapy and chemotherapy, in addition to the removal of the prostate and infected areas.

How To Prevent It

There are a few measures you can take to decrease your chances of developing prostate cancer. A diet low in fat and as little consumption of meat as possible may help. As mentioned before, vegetarian men are much less likely to develop prostate cancer.