Prostate cancer forms in the tissues of the prostate gland, which is only found in men. This is information on prostate cancer you need. This gland is a part of the male reproductive system, and it sits below the bladder and behind the rectum. Generally, this type of cancer, when it occurs, is found in older men. Read as much on this male-specific cancer as you can, as you get older, and never ignore warning signs.

In 2008, there were over 186,000 new cases of prostate cancer. Of those cases, over 28,000 men died from its effects. At what age should men begin regular prostate screening? What are the risk factors and how curable is it once it's been diagnosed in a male? We'll try to answer these questions as we move through this look at prostate cancer.

Prostate screening is the act of looking for cancer before any visible symptoms show up. If done regularly after a certain age, this is the single most effective method for early detection of the cancer. Also, the chances of effective treatment are greater because it will have been found so early. Usually, beginning at age 40, a physician will perform a digital rectal examination to check for any irregularities or hardness of the prostate gland. Most physicians will also have blood drawn for what's called a PSA, or Prostate Specific Antigen test. Elevated levels of this antigen could be an indicator of prostate cancer.

Men should always keep in mind that regular screening, usually annually, for prostate cancer is highly recommended from age 50 onwards. It's uncommon in men less than that age. More than 80% of all prostate cancer patients are age 65 or older. There may also be a genetic link, so males should make sure to give the examining physician any details they may have on close members of the family who have developed this cancer.

With early detection and regular screening, prostate cancer doesn't have to be a dreaded killer. The sooner it's detected, the better, and a whole host of treatments exist that make the odds of surviving this disease very high if it's caught early enough.