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Prostate cancer affects the prostate gland, a walnut shaped organ that surrounds the urethra before it enters the penis. The prostate gland is reponsible for the secretion and storage of seminal fluid. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men, accounting for more than 25% of cancer diagnoses.
Although an enlarged prostate due to a tumor can cause difficult urination, prostate cancer should be distinguished from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a benign growth of the prostate gland that affects more than 50% of men over 60 years old.
A physician can perform two preliminary tests to detect prostate cancer: digital rectal exam or blood test for prostate-specific antigen (PSA).
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