The prostate is a small gland in the pelvis connecting to the urethra. It is a critical part of the male reproductive system, contributing to making semen. Prostate cancer is categorized as a malignant neoplasm that affects the epithelial cells. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancer types in men. The likelihood of prostate cancer increases with age, with cases increasingly occurring in individuals 50 or older. In the United States, it is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Black men, occurring earlier and with more aggressive and late stages of prostate cancer. Symptoms may occur when the prostate enlarges due to the growth of cancer, causing urethral narrowing and impacting urine flow. Screening and diagnosis of prostate cancer involves the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test. Genetic factors, notably BRCA-1 and BRCA-2, may link to prostate cancer. These mutations and a family history of prostate, breast, ovarian and/or pancreatic cancer may increase the risk of developing the disease.

Symptoms include trouble urinating, urge incontinence, decreased force in the stream of urine, blood in the urine, blood in the semen, bone pain, losing weight without trying, and erectile dysfunction.

PSA is specifically produced in the prostate gland but other conditions beside prostate cancer may cause higher levels.