Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among men. Every year, approximately 40,000 American men die of this disease and one out of eight men will develop prostate cancer during his lifetime.

Since prostate cancer does not usually display symptoms in its early stages, researchers are searching for genetic markers to aid in diagnosis and treatment. A new study from the University of Michigan Medical School, published in the August 23, 2001 issue of Nature, gave scientists their first look at the genetic and molecular profile of prostate cancer.

“The potential significance of this research is in three areas–diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic,” says Mark Rubin, M.D., co-author of the study. “The ultimate goal is to develop tests that could help us identify the presence of prostate cancer and determine which patients have this aggressive disease. More importantly, we hope to identify genes we can target for therapy.”

* The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system. It contributes to seminal fluid–a milky fluid that nourishes sperm and is released to form part of semen. The prostate surrounds the upper part of the urethra, the tube that transports urine from the bladder. If the prostate grows too large, the flaw of urine con be slowed or interrupted.

* The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age, with about 60 percent of cases diagnosed in men over age 60. Other risk factors include a family history of prostate cancer or being of African-American descent.

* Men over age 50 should have an annual prostate check-up, consisting of a digital rectal exam and a blood test to measure a protein called prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Men with additional risk factors should begin annual check-ups at age 40.

* Both advanced prostate cancer and benign prostate enlargement can produce the following symptoms: weak or interrupted urine flow, frequent or difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, painful urination or ejaculation, prolonged pain in the lower back, pelvis or upper thighs.