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Prostate Cancer Specialist

Urology Associates Medical Group

Urologists located in Burbank, CA

When abnormal cells grow and multiply in the prostate, prostate cancer develops. The experienced doctors at Urology Associates Medical Group can diagnose and treat this condition. Patients with symptoms of prostate cancer in Burbank, California, should contact the office to make an appointment.

Prostate Cancer Q & A

What is prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate, which is a small gland that produces seminal fluid. This cancer is most common among older men, but it can occur at a younger age as well. Prostate cancer is usually slow growing. If it’s caught early, it’s often curable, especially if the cancer is still confined to the prostate gland.

What causes prostate cancer?

Cancer develops in the prostate when the DNA in cells mutates and causes them to grow and divide faster than healthy cells. This leads to a tumor that may invade nearby tissue and eventually spread to other parts of the body.

Prostate cancer is more likely among some men than others. Some risk factors for prostate cancer include:

  • Being older
  • Having a family history of breast cancer or prostate cancer
  • Being black
  • Being overweight or obese

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

In its earlier stages, prostate cancer may not cause any symptoms. However, as the cancer grows, patients may notice:

  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Discomfort in the pelvis
  • Blood in the semen
  • Weakened urine stream
  • Trouble with urination
  • Bone pain

How does Urology Associates Medical Group diagnose prostate cancer?

In some cases, the doctors at Urology Associates Medical Group will suspect prostate cancer based on a patient’s symptoms. In other cases, the doctors will screen men for prostate cancer even when they aren’t experiencing symptoms. Screening may be recommended for men over the age of 50 or for younger men who are at a high risk of developing prostate cancer. Men should discuss the cancer of prostate cancer screening with their doctor to determine whether this type of screening is advisable.

To diagnose prostate cancer, doctors may perform a digital rectal exam to look for enlargement of the prostate. The doctor may also order a prostate-specific antigen test, an ultrasound of the prostate, or a biopsy.

How is prostate cancer treated?

Some men with prostate cancer may not need immediate treatment. In cases where treatment is necessary or desired, doctors may recommend surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, biological therapy, or chemotherapy.