How Prostate Cancer Develops
The prostate releases seminal fluid into the man's urethra during ejaculation. Cancer can develop on the prostate, and men over the age of 40 should have regular screenings for prostate cancer.
Related Articles
Prostate Removal - Does Your Prostate Need to Be Removed Video - About.comWhat is the Prostate?Prostate Biopsy - Biopsy During Prostate Exam Video - About.comProstate Cancer Screening - How to Find Out If You Have Prostate CancerBenign Prostatic Hyperplasia - Explanation of BPH Video - About.com
Transcript: How Prostate Cancer Develops
What Is the Prostate?
The prostate is part of the male reproductive system. It is a small, round gland that is located in front of the rectum at the base of the bladder. Its primary function is to release fluid into the urethra during ejaculation.Sperm's Path During Ejaculation
During ejaculation, sperm travels from the testicle through tubes called the vas deferens. The vas deferens run behind the bladder and enter into the prostate gland. During its journey, sperm combines with seminal fluids, other components of ejaculate, from three sources - the seminal vesicles, the prostate, and the bulbourethral glands. The combined fluids, called semen or ejaculate, then travel the length of the urethra and out of the body via the penis.How Prostate Cancer Develops
Prostate cancer develops as small nodules or bumps on the surface of the prostate, which can be detected during rectal examination.Treating Prostate Cancer
There are many methods to treat prostate cancer. In most cases, the prostate does not need to be removed if the cancer is detected early. If prostate removal is necessary, the risk for erectile dysfunction increases because of the large number of nerves located near the prostate.Who Is at Risk for Prostate Cancer?
Men over the age of 40 should have routine prostate cancer screening as part of their regular health check up; this includes digital rectal examination and serum PSA testing.Copyrighted animations provided by Blausen Medical.