Prostate cancer affects one in six men over 50 and is most common after age 70. In South Africa there is a very high rate of late detection of advanced stage disease due to a lack of awareness.

The prostate is a small gland positioned around the urethra (the exit tube from the bladder, which runs through the penis), and it produces seminal fluid, which along with sperm from the testicles, make up semen.

Risk factors

• Age, especially over 50
• A family history of prostate cancer
• A diet high in animal fat and low in fresh fruit and vegetables

Symptoms
Symptoms appear only in advanced prostate cancer and are similar to those of benign prostate problems. They include:

• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Trouble starting/stopping urine flow
• Weak urine flow
• Pain/burning sensation while urinating
• Blood in the urine

Diagnosis
Your doctor will do a physical examination in which he inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to palpate the prostate through the rectal wall for lumps which could be a sign of cancer.

Most enlargements of the prostate are benign (not cancer) and can be treated easily. See your doctor to make sure! You should have a check-up annually from age 50.