Personalized Care for Prostate Cancer in Southern California
Most prostate cancers begin in the cells that produce seminal fluid. Although the disease is the result of a malignant tumor, the prostate cancer survival rate is high. The disease affects one out of seven adult males and is the second most common type of cancer in men.
Although some men choose not to undergo surgery or therapy, prompt treatment is usually the main option for a cure. Our expert cancer care services can help you manage prostate cancer, from screening to diagnosis and treatment.
Find a Doctor today to begin treatment or testing for prostate cancer in Southern California at one of these locations:
- California Hospital Medical Center
- Community Hospital of San Bernardino
- Northridge Hospital Medical Center
- St. Bernardine Medical Center
- St. Mary Medical Center Long Beach
What Causes Prostate Cancer?
The causes of prostate cancer are not completely clear to medical experts. Although prostate cancer can affect any man, certain factors increases the risk. Age plays a major role, as 66 is the average age at diagnosis. Men who are African-American, older than 40, or who have a family history of prostate cancer also have a higher chance for developing the disease.
There are ways to reduce your risk for prostate cancer. Taking care of your body, including quitting smoking and regularly exercising, can lower your risk. Healthy lifestyle habits can help, but not completely protect you from getting prostate cancer.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
The symptoms of prostate cancer tend to appear after it has advanced. At this stage, symptoms may include:
- Erection problems
- Sudden urges to urinate
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Difficulty urinating or starting to urinate
- Painful or burning urination
- Weak or stop-and-start urine flow
- Back, hip, or pelvic pain
- Blood in urine or semen
The symptoms above are also present for an enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Your doctor will perform thorough testing to get an accurate diagnosis.
Caring for Prostate Cancer at Dignity Health Southern California
Since the prognosis for prostate cancer is usually positive, your doctor will focus on choosing a treatment option with the least amount of side effects.
Our doctors can treat prostate cancer with surgery, drug therapy, cryotherapy, and other modern treatment methods. After a diagnosis, your doctor will talk with you about which option is best for you depending on your age and other lifestyle factors. Schedule an appointment today to determine a personalized treatment plan.
Dignity Health has a full line of services to care for prostate cancer in Southern California
