Prostate Cancer Overview in New York, NY
Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor that forms in the prostate gland and is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in American men, with more than 300,000 new cases each year. Thanks to earlier detection and better treatment, including minimally invasive robotic surgery, survival rates for prostate cancer found early are now close to 100%. This overview from Prostate Cancer 911 covers who is at risk, how prostate cancer is found and staged, and the treatment options Dr. David Samadi offers in Midtown Manhattan.
What Is Prostate Cancer?
The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland located below the bladder, in front of the rectum, and wrapped around the urethra. Its main job is to produce fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate cancer develops when cells in the gland begin to grow uncontrollably. Like other cancers, it is not contagious. Many prostate cancers grow slowly, but some are aggressive and can spread, which is why accurate diagnosis matters.
Prostate Cancer Demographics
Every man is at some risk of developing prostate cancer, and the likelihood rises with age. Most men should begin discussing screening around 50. African American men and men with a father or brother who had the disease face higher risk and should begin screening at 45, or earlier depending on their family history. Learn more about causes and risk factors.
Prostate Cancer Prevention
There is no single cause of prostate cancer and no guaranteed way to prevent it. Genetics play a role, but lifestyle matters too. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, regular exercise, and a healthy weight may help lower risk. See our prostate cancer prevention guide.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Screening typically starts with a digital rectal exam (DRE) and a PSA blood test. If the exam reveals a firm ridge or other abnormality, or if the PSA is elevated or rising, further evaluation with MRI and an MRI fusion biopsy may follow. PSA was traditionally considered normal below 4.0 ng/mL, but age, prostate size, and PSA trends all matter. Learn more about elevated PSA.
Prostate Cancer Staging
Once cancer is confirmed, the Gleason score, Grade Group, PSA, and imaging determine the stage, from stage 1 cancer confined to a small part of the prostate to stage 4 cancer that has spread. In this video, Dr. Samadi explains why a thorough, detective-like evaluation is essential. Read more about staging and survival rates.
Prostate Cancer Symptoms
Early prostate cancer usually causes no symptoms. As it grows, men may notice urinary changes, blood in the urine or semen, or erectile difficulties, and advanced disease can cause bone pain. Because symptoms appear late, regular screening is the best protection. See our symptoms page.
Prostate Cancer Treatment Options
Robotic Radical Prostatectomy
The prostate is removed through small incisions using the da Vinci system. Dr. Samadi’s SMART Surgery technique focuses on complete cancer removal while protecting continence and sexual function.
Traditional Open Radical Prostatectomy
The prostate is removed through a larger abdominal incision. This approach typically involves more blood loss and a longer recovery than robotic surgery.
Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy
A minimally invasive approach using straight instruments and a 2D camera, largely replaced today by robotic surgery.
Radiation Therapy
External beam radiation uses targeted high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells, often over several weeks or, with stereotactic techniques, just a few sessions.
Brachytherapy
Tiny radioactive seeds are placed directly into the prostate to deliver radiation from within.
Active Surveillance
For low-risk, slow-growing cancers, regular PSA tests, MRI, and biopsies allow men to avoid treatment unless the cancer progresses.
Explore every option on our prostate cancer treatment page, or call Prostate Cancer 911 at (212) 365-5000 to schedule a consultation.
Related Care and Resources at Prostate Cancer 911
Prostate Cancer Overview FAQs
How common is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in American men, with more than 300,000 new cases diagnosed each year. About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed in his lifetime.
Is prostate cancer contagious?
No. Like other cancers, prostate cancer cannot be passed from one person to another.
Where is the prostate located?
The prostate sits just below the bladder, in front of the rectum, and surrounds the urethra.
What tests are used to screen for prostate cancer?
Screening usually involves a PSA blood test and a digital rectal exam. Abnormal results may lead to MRI and a targeted biopsy.
What is brachytherapy?
Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy in which small radioactive seeds are implanted in the prostate to treat cancer from within.
Is robotic surgery better than open prostatectomy?
Robotic surgery usually offers less blood loss, less pain, and faster recovery with comparable cancer control. Learn about robotic surgery.
How do I schedule a prostate cancer consultation?
Call (212) 365-5000 or request an appointment with Dr. Samadi.
Schedule Your Consultation With NYC’s Leading Urologist
Take control of your health today. Whether you are seeking a second opinion or experiencing symptoms like hematuria, Dr. David Samadi and the team at Prostate Cancer 911 are here to provide world-class care in Midtown Manhattan.
Request an AppointmentOffice Location: 485 Madison Ave, 21st Floor, New York, NY 10022
Phone: (212) 365-5000