OVERVIEW

Prostate cancer is the abnormal growth of malignant cells in the prostate. The prostate is part of the male reproductive system and stores fluid that consists of semen, spermatoza and seminal vesicle fluid.

Causes

Factors that increase the risk of developing prostate cancer can include:

• Aging
• Family history
• Lifestyle factors (diet, exercise)
• Obesity

Symptoms

• Pain or difficulty when urinating
• Decrease in force when urinating
• Blood in urine
• Inability to void urine due to blockage

Treatment

Treatment of prostate cancer can include:

• Active surveillance
• Radiotherapy
• Hormone therapy
• Medication
• Chemotherapy

If you have any of the above symptoms consult your general practitioner.

VIDEOS

Video: What is Prostate Cancer

http://video.healthination.com/hn/prostate-cancer/what-is-prostate-cancer-overview.html

RESOURCES & SUPPORT

Local

Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand
Cancer Society of New Zealand

International

NHS – Prostate Cancer

American Cancer Society

A guide to intimacy after prostate cancer

RESEARCH

The New Zealand Medical Journal
British Medical Journal

FORUMS

The Cancer Forums – Prostate Cancer
MedHelp.org – Prostate Cancer Forum
Topix.com – Prostate Cancer

DISCLAIMER
The information above is of a general nature and is designed to provide you with an overview of the topic, with links to local and international resources that may be of interest.  We do our best to ensure that this information is accurate and up to date.

You should always, however, seek specific professional medical advice, treatment and care appropriate to you, and as such we strongly recommend you consult with your general practitioner first.

Updated May 2013
Image source: Wikimedia Commons – Male Anatomy