Prostate cancer is a disease characterized by uncontrolled growth of cells in the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system. It is the second most common cancer in men and particularly affects people older than age 65. Although most cases progress slowly and have a good prognosis when confined to the prostate, aggressive forms that spread can be dangerous and incurable.

The main signs and symptoms of prostate cancer are nonspecific and often resemble those of benign prostatic hyperplasia; they primarily involve urinary issues such as decreased urinary stream, frequent urination, and pain while urinating. In rare cases, symptoms of metastatic disease, like bone pain or fractures, may also occur.

Prostate cancer is diagnosed through various tests, including a digital rectal exam, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, and imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI. A prostate biopsy is then performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the cancer.

Medical treatments for prostate cancer vary based on factors such as age, health status, cancer stage, and individual preferences, and common options include watchful waiting, surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Watchful waiting is often recommended for older individuals with less aggressive cancer, whereas surgery and radiation are typically used in the early stages to attempt a cure.

Several supplements with antioxidant effects — such as curcumin, soy isoflavones, green tea catechins, pomegranate, lycopene, vitamin E, vitamin D, selenium, and zinc — have been studied for their potential role in reducing the risk of or treating prostate cancer due to the association between oxidative stress and the disease.

A Western diet that is high in animal-based proteins and dairy products is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, whereas a plant-based diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, is associated with a decreased risk. Additionally, a high dairy intake raises risk, whereas lycopene from tomatoes may lower it, and obesity can increase the risk of advanced prostate cancer, which makes weight loss beneficial.

Increased physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer and its mortality, whereas cigarette smoking is associated with a higher risk of progression and mortality from the disease.

The causes of prostate cancer are not fully understood, but they involve DNA changes in prostate cells that can be inherited or acquired; several genes are associated with the disease, and acquired mutations may result from random DNA errors or external factors like diet and chemical exposure. Additionally, Black men or men who have a first-degree relative with prostate cancer have a higher risk.