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Prostate Cancer In Young Men: What Young Men Should Know

Posted on by William Brant, MD in

When you are a young man, there are certain things you do not usually think about, like losing your hair, slowing down, needing a cane to walk, or getting prostate cancer. Young men often consider these all “old man” issues. Not so fast though. While some may take decades before you face them, prostate cancer in young men is increasing. Here is what you should know.

Changing Statistics For Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer in older adolescents and young men has increased in most countries around the world.

According to the US National Cancer Institute, there has been an increase in all groups between the ages of 15 to 40. This age group is six times more likely to get prostate cancer than older men.

The five-year survival rate is lower than for older men. For example:

  • Men ages 40 to 80: 95-100%
  • Men ages 15 to 24: 30%
  • Men ages 20 to 29: 50%
  • Men ages 25 to 34: 80%

Tumors In Young Men Are More Aggressive

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among African-American, Hispanic, and white men in the US. While the five-year survival rate is high over the age of 40, tumors in younger men grow more quickly, making survival less likely.

Family History Plays A Major Role

Men who have a father, brother, or son who developed prostate cancer at a young age are at the highest risk. Knowing your family history could help save your life.

Causes Are Unclear

Many experts think that rising obesity in the US is contributing to the increase in prostate cancer in young men. Physical inactivity, HPV infections, substance exposure, and environmental carcinogens may also play a role.

For young men, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight and diet may help reduce risk and promote longevity.

Testing Is Easy But Timing Is Inconclusive

Prostate cancer testing can be done in a doctor’s office with a digital rectal exam and a blood test.

Speak to a board-certified urologist, William Brant, MD, FACS, FECSM, about your individual situation and when testing should begin. Men with higher-than-average risk may want to start testing at age 40.

Early Stage Prostate Cancer And Watchful Waiting

Watchful waiting is used with regular evaluations and imaging tests to monitor cancer progression. This approach helps avoid overtreatment and reduces risks such as urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction.

Talk with Dr. William Brant, a recognized expert in men’s sexual health, about your individual prostate cancer risk if you are a young man.

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