The prostate is a gland in the male body that aids in reproductive health. Like any other tissue it can develop cancer in time. 

This makes advancing age one of the primary factors in development of prostate cancer. In addition, black men are at a higher risk than any other ethnicity. Other risk factors include obesity, lack of exercise, genetic predisposition, and family history. 

It is recommended that men over the age of 50 have a PSA (prostate specific antigen) test every two to four years. Individuals with pre-existing risk factors should talk to their doctor about screening as early as age 45. 

Fortunately, there are varied courses of treatment for prostate cancer and survivability is very high if it is detected early. 

More information on prostate cancer and UTMB Health services available to treat the condition are available online.