Prostate cancer care

Prostate cancer treatments have improved over the last 20 years, thanks to early detection and other medical advances. Today, nearly 3 million men in the U.S. who have been diagnosed with the disease are leading longer and more active lives.

At Advocate Cancer Institute, we’re proud to help lead the fight against prostate cancer in the northern Illinois communities we serve. Our multidisciplinary team – including board-certified urologists, radiation oncologists, specialized nurses and other experts – deliver effective treatments that minimize pain and the side effects that can impact your life.

Find an Advocate Cancer Institute near you.

What is prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is the development of cancer cells on the prostate gland, an essential part of the male reproductive system. It’s one of the most common forms of cancer among American men. When found in its earliest stage, prostate cancer is very treatable. Nearly 230,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the U.S. and one in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime.

Where is the prostate gland located?

The prostate gland is located just below the bladder, in front of the rectum. It surrounds the male urethra, which is the tube that empties fluid from the bladder.

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

Early signs of prostate cancer may be unnoticeable but can be more pronounced as the disease progresses. Prostate cancer symptoms may include:

• Difficulty urinating
• A need to urinate frequently, especially at night
• Blood in urine or semen
• Painful urination or ejaculation
• Frequent pain in the lower back, hips or upper thigh

What causes prostate cancer?

Specific prostate cancer causes are unknown at this time, but certain risk factors have been identified.

Prostate cancer is mostly diagnosed in men over age 65 and becomes increasingly common with advancing age. Other risk factors include:

• A family history of prostate cancer
• Having a diet high in animal fats
• Your race; African American men have the highest risk
• Obesity

Discover tips and recommendations for prostate cancer prevention.

Diagnosing prostate cancer

Early prostate cancer stages are highly treatable. This is why the American Cancer Society recommends discussing screening for prostate cancer with your doctor at age 50. If you have an elevated risk, you might be advised to start screening at a younger age.

Our specialists at Advocate use several tests to screen prostate cancer. If prostate cancer is suspected, additional follow-up tests to confirm a diagnosis may be ordered.

Learn more about prostate cancer screening and diagnosis.

Prostate cancer treatments & therapies

If you’re diagnosed with prostate cancer, rest assured you have some of Illinois’ best experts by your side. Together, our highly skilled team will work closely with you to create a personal cancer treatment plan, which may include the latest surgical, medical and radiation therapies.

Learn more about the types of prostate cancer treatments we offer.

Support for every step

We’re committed to caring for the whole you and providing the resources you and your loved ones need to manage a cancer diagnosis. You’ll find a full range of free or low-cost cancer support services – from education to rehabilitation, nutritional to spiritual counseling, support groups and more empowering programs.