Prostate cancer is a male cancer in which the prostate glands are severely affected. The prostate gland is an important internal organ in men. This walnut-sized gland is located between the bladder and the penis with the urethra running through the center of the prostate, allowing for urine elimination.

Prostate cancers exist in several types of adenocarcinomas, according to the appearance and size. They are:

• Transitional cell carcinomas
• Neuroendocrine Tumors
• Small Cell Carcinomas
• Sarcomas

Prostate cancer is considered a slow progressing cancer, and few patients die due to this type cancer. However, if left unmonitored or treated, prostate cancer may affect the prostate function as well as that of surrounding tissues and organs.

Symptoms of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is just similar to other types of cancer, which means it may not show any symptoms in the early stage. But, patients affected with mid or late stage prostate cancer may experience the following health problems in the body:

• Bloody semen
• The flow of urine decreases
• Pain and burning during urination
• Frequent urination urges at night
• Swelling in the pelvic area and legs
• Bone pain
• Erectile dysfunction
• Painful ejaculation

The above mentioned health issues may emerge with small tumors, but tend to progress as tumors gradually increase or metastasize.

Causes of prostate cancer

1. Gene mutations

Prostate cancer is mainly causes by 2 factors:

• Acquired Gene Mutation
• Inherited Gene Mutation

Both are caused by the death of the tumor suppressor gene known as RNASEL or HPC1, which can lead to the development of cancer in the body. BRCA2 and BRCA1 may also contribute to cancer emergences as well as HOXB13, MLH1, MSH2, IGF-1 are some the genes that aid cancer growth in your body, which may severely affect the internal organs.

2. Other prostate cancer risk factors

The common triggers of prostate cancer are similar to other cancers, such as:

• Smoking
• Obesity
• Poor diet
• Family history
• Advanced age