Types of Prostate Cancer

Learn about the types of prostate cancer we treat.

Each patient’s prostate cancer is unique, and some types may be better suited to certain treatments than others. That’s why we start with a complete diagnostic process, including a biopsy, to help us get the right diagnosis for your type of cancer.

Types of prostate cancers include:

• Adenocarcinoma, the most common type of prostate cancer, where cancer forms in the cells of the glands
• Sarcomas, a rare form of prostate cancer, where cancer cells develop from smooth muscle cells in the prostate called mesenchymal cells
• Small cell carcinomas, a rare disorder accounting for less than 1% of all prostate cancers
• Neuroendocrine tumor, a rare and aggressive form of prostate cancer
• Transitional cell carcinomas, a rare form of prostate cancer that involves the entire prostatic urethra, particularly near the verumontanum, the large prostatic duct

Understanding prostate cancer risk

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the prostate gland. Certain cells grow uncontrollably, then they crowd and destroy healthy cells around the prostate gland and form a tumor. Urination and sexual function may be affected. Sometimes, cancerous cells move to other areas of the body. Approximately one in nine men will be diagnosed with the disease.

While all men are at risk for prostate cancer, certain factors can increase your risk:

• Age: As a man ages, his risk for prostate cancer increases.
• Race: African American men are more likely to get the disease.
• Family history: Men who have close relative with prostate cancer are at an increased risk for the disease.
• Diet: Eating a diet rich in high-fat dairy products and animal fat may increase the risk for prostate cancer.

It’s important to know your prostate cancer risk and work with your doctor to discuss if regular screening may be right for you.