The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located at the base of
the penis just below the bladder and above the rectum. It surrounds the
bladder neck and a portion of the urethra, and its function is to produce
fluid that will transport semen during ejaculation. Though the shape and
size of the prostate may vary, it is usually about two to three inches
in diameter.
During a man's orgasm, fluid is secreted from the prostate and seminal
vesicles into the urethra, where it mixes with sperm. The resulting mix
is called semen, which is expelled from the penis during a man's climax.
With age, abnormalities can arise in the prostate. The most common abnormalities
are cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Unfortunately, there are
often no signs for these conditions, and when symptoms do occur, they
are similar for both.
The American Cancer Society estimates that 198,100 new cases of prostate
cancer will be diagnosed in the United States and that 31,500 men will
die from this disease, making prostate cancer the number two cancer killer
in men. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer, excluding skin cancers,
in American men, and it is estimated that 1 in 6 men will develop clinically
evident prostate cancer in their lifetimes.
Like other cancers, prostate cancer is a disease of the body's cells.
Cancer is an abnormal growth of cells which may invade and destroy nearby
tissues and organs or spread to other parts of the body. Though cancer
may occur in any part of the prostate, it is most commonly found in the
outer portions. The disease is most common among older men and its cause
is unknown.
Like high blood pressure and heart disease, prostate cancer often lacks
symptoms and can be viewed as a silent killer. In an effort to catch prostate
cancer earlier, the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute,
and the American Urological Association recommend periodic screening for
men starting at age 50. Because of their increased risks, African Americans
and men with a family history of prostate cancer should begin screening
at age 40.
Continuum Cancer Centers of New York, the Department of Urology, and the
Department of Radiation Oncology
have launched a truly comprehensive program for malignant and benign disorders
of the urinary tract, with a particular emphasis on prostatic malignancies.
A Dedicated Team
The multidisciplinary dedicated team includes highly specialized urologic
oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, impotence specialists,
pathologists, radiologists, and oncology nurses. Support staff and services
including individual, family, and group support counseling are offered
as part of the comprehensive treatment plan.
Screening and Surveillance
We treat individuals who have urinary symptoms as well as an elevated
or rising PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen). Men with a family history of
prostate cancer and African Americans are at an increased risk for prostate
cancer, and they should start screening at age 40. Further studies and
a surveillance schedule based upon an individual's risks will be recommended.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Our program offers state-of-the-art radiologic imaging techniques and
pathologic diagnoses by a team of dedicated specialists. Based upon the
diagnosis, stage, and patient preference, a full array of treatment options
are made available to patients. Patients will meet with all the appropriate
team members in a single visit and thoroughly review treatment recommendations
and options, so that patients and family members fully understand the
next steps.
For more information or to request a referral to a physician, e-mail us
through the on-line Continuum
Referral Service or call toll-free 1-800-420-4004.
