What Is Prostate Cancer?Doctor Communicating With A Patient During A Prostate Exam

Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably. The prostate—a walnut‑sized gland in men—sits below the bladder, in front of the rectum, and wraps around the urethra. While prostate enlargement happens frequently with age, cancerous growth is a more serious concern. Early-stage prostate cancer may produce no symptoms, underscoring the need for awareness and screening. 

Key Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer

Understanding the risk factors can help families encourage proactive conversations with healthcare providers. The most common risks include:

  • Age: Prostate cancer is rare in men before 50 years old, but becomes more common as they get older, especially after age 65.

  • Race/Ethnicity: African American men are at higher risk and often diagnosed with prostate cancer at a younger age.

  • Family History: Men with a father, brother, or close relative who had prostate cancer are at increased risk.

How Is Prostate Cancer Detected?

The most common method for early detection is the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test. PSA is a protein produced by both healthy and cancerous prostate cells. While most PSA is found in semen, small amounts circulate in the blood.

Elevated PSA levels may suggest a prostate issue, including cancer, and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Can Prostate Cancer Be Prevented?

There is no way to completely prevent prostate cancer. However, several lifestyle changes may reduce the risk:

Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight is associated with higher risk of advanced prostate cancer. 

Exercise regularly. Most days per week of moderate activity supports overall health and weight control. 

Eat a balanced diet. Focus on colorful fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, minimizing red/processed meats, sugary drinks, high-fat dairy, and limiting calcium-rich foods/supplements unless otherwise advised.

Supplements & Medications: Proceed with Caution

Some supplements and medications have been studied for potential prostate cancer prevention, including:

  • Vitamin E & Selenium: Early research was promising, but the SELECT trial showed no benefit, even a slight increased risk with vitamin E. cancer.org

  • Soy Isoflavones: Early evidence suggests a possible benefit, but more research is needed.

  • Aspirin: Early data hint at reduced incidence and mortality, yet its bleeding risk tips the balance—it's not currently recommended solely for prostate cancer prevention.

Before starting any supplements or medications, men should consult their healthcare provider.

At Core Medicine of Idaho in Caldwell, we provide comprehensive men’s health screenings, including PSA testing, wellness exams, and patient education.

Early detection saves lives. Encourage the men in your life to take charge of their health today. Call today to schedule a PSA test or men’s health visit at our Caldwell clinic.