The results of a new study published in the Lancet journal are quite worrying for one of the most common cancers found worldwide. The study found that the number of new cases of prostate cancer worldwide will more than double in the next two decades.

The study was done on the basis of population change. According to the journal, 'Our findings suggest that the number of new cases annually will increase from 1.4 million in 2020 to 2.9 million by 2040. This is also a matter of concern because about 15 percent of the total cancer cases found in men are prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is a fatal disease that develops in the walnut-sized prostate gland located below the urinary bladder of men and in front of the rectum. This happens when the cells of the prostate gland mutate and start growing uncontrollably, causing tumors to form. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, especially in the elderly group.

Causes of prostate cancer
Many factors are responsible for the increase in prostate cancer cases. Risk factors for prostate cancer include age, in which the risk increases significantly after the age of 50. Family history and genetics also play a role, as men who have close relatives diagnosed with prostate cancer have a higher risk. Race also affects risk, with African-American men being more likely to develop prostate cancer than men of other ethnicities. Lifestyle factors such as a diet high in red meat and low fruits and vegetables, obesity and lack of physical activity can also increase the risk. Exposure to certain environmental factors and inflammation in the prostate gland can also contribute to the development of prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer can be prevented to a great extent
The good news is that cancer can be prevented to a great extent. Early symptoms of prostate cancer may include changes in urination habits, such as frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, weak urine flow, or the presence of blood in the urine or semen. However, it is important to note that early stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms.

(PC: Freepik)