The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates 25% of the reported cases of prostate cancer will occur in the United States in 2008. This is good reason for American men to become more aware of common prostrate disorders and how they can keep good prostrate health to possibly avoid these disorders.

Prostate Glands and their Function

The prostate gland is located just below a male's bladder and surrounds the top portion of the tube that drains urine from the bladder (urethra). The prostate gland is actually a collection of many smaller glands surrounded by a layer of fibrous tissue called the prostatic capsule. The main function of the prostate glands is to produce part of, store and help in the secretion of semen, the solution that carries sperm.

Overview of Common Prostate Disorders:

• Prostatis.  Inflammation or irritation of the prostrate glands. This can be caused by bacteria, kidney stones, cancer or by other non-bacterial causes.
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia. The prostate glands enlarge to such an extent that urination becomes difficult. Cells in the central portion of the gland begin to reproduce more rapidly in men in their mid- to late 40s, resulting in prostate gland enlargement. As tissues in the area enlarge, they often compress the urethra and partially block urine flow. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the medical term for prostate gland enlargement. BPH affects about half the men in their 60s and up to 90 percent of men in their 70s and 80s.
• Prostate cancer. This is one of the most common cancers affecting older men (usually above 50) and a common cause of death. Prostate cancer has been the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among the American men. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that 10% of the total cancer deaths in the United States will be due to prostate cancer in 2008. This figure was 9% up till 2007.

Treatment of prostate gland enlargement depends on individual signs and symptoms and may include medications, surgery or non-surgical therapies.

Causes of Prostate Disorders:

• Age. Men above 50 are usually diagnosed with prostate disorders. More than 80% of the diagnosed cases are more than 65.
• Race/Nationality.  Prostate disorders occur more in African-American men than in men of other races. It is also more common in men in North America, northwestern Europe, Australia, and on Caribbean islands.
• Diet. The diet consumed in America can be a contributing factor for developing prostate disorders. Men who eat red meat, and pay no attention to vegetables and fruit in their diet might be more at risk. 
• Hereditary Factors Although this is not a major cause, the risk of getting prostate cancer is higher if you have a father or brother who has had it. 
• DNA mutations.  Changes in the DNA of a prostate cancer cell. Certain genes that promote cell growth and division are called oncogenes. Others that normally slow down cell division or cause cells to die at the right time are called tumor suppressor genes. Cancer can be caused by DNA changes (mutations) that turn on oncogenes or turn off tumor suppressor genes.

At this stage of research, results are not yet clear as to what causes these disorders. Doctors, however, recommend a low-fat diet, high in fiber with plenty of fruits and vegetables. You may be able to reduce your risk of prostate cancer by changing the way you eat. Tomatoes, pink grapefruit and watermelon which contain antioxidants called lycopenes have shown potential in lowering the risk of prostate cancer. Lycopenes antioxidants can help prevent damage to DNA. Researchers at the Christie Hospital in Manchester concluded that the intake of omega-3 fats (found in fatty fish) may inhibit the prostate cancer cells. http://www.nature.com/bjc/journal/v94/n6/abs/6603030a.html)

Role of Beta-Sitosterol

Beta-sitosterol, one of several phytosterols, helps support prostate health. It has been used in easing symptoms of BPH with good results. Natural sources of Beta-Sitosterol can be found in pecans, pumpkin seeds, cashew fruit, rice bran, wheat germ, corn oils, soybeans, sea-buckthorn and wolfberries.. Supplements like Super Beta Prostate, Beta Prostate, Saw Palmetto will help you get the ensured dosage your body needs to nutritionally support prostate health.  Please consult your doctor for its advantage for you and recommended dosage.