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Prostate Cancer Facts

National Cancer Institute

Posted: Sept. 1, 2008

Prostate cancer forms in tissues of the prostate. A walnut-sized gland in the male reproductive system, the prostate is just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The main function of the prostate is to supply fluid for sperm during ejaculation.

Prostate cancer usually occurs in older men; it is rare for it to develop in men under the age of 45.

Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer among men in this country. For this year, the estimated number of new cases of prostate cancer in the United States is 186,320 and the number of deaths in 2008 from this type of cancer is expected to be 28,660.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the abnormal growth of benign prostate cells. Benign tumors are not cancer, however, the prostate grows larger and squeezes the urethra, which prevents the normal flow of urine.

BPH is a very common problem. In the United States, most men over the age of 50 have symptoms of BPH. For some men, symptoms may be severe enough to need treatment.

Scientists have studied whether BPH might increase the risk for prostate cancer, but at this time, it is not a clear risk factor.


Source: National Cancer Institute

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