prostate cancer, the most common invasive cancer among American males, rarely occurring before the age of 39 and most often affecting men between the ages of 60 and 79. Ninety-five percent are adenocarcinomas; the remaining types are transitional cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, sarcoma, and ductal carcinoma. The cause is unknown, but it is believed to be hormone-related. The disease may cause no direct symptoms but can be detected in the course of diagnosing bladder or ureteral obstruction, hematuria, or pyuria. The cancer can spread to cause bone pain in the pelvis, ribs, or vertebrae. It is commonly detected by prostate-specific antigen testing and digital rectal examination, with confirmation by core-needle biopsy. Treatment is by surgery, radiation therapy, or hormones, depending on the age of the patient, extent of disease, and other individual factors. Nursing interventions focus on health teaching about the chosen intervention and education regarding community resources such as support groups.
