| Popis: |
The reproductive organs are not required for an individual’s survival but are required for survival of the species. As the individual approaches adulthood, the prostate undergoes developmental changes, resulting in maturation of this gland at puberty. At this stage, the prostate becomes a differentiated gland that produces proteins and other substances fundamental for reproduction and survival of the species. By the age of 50, as many as 30% of all men will harbor microscopic foci of prostate adenocarcinoma (CaP), and the incidence increases with age. In the United States, CaP is clinically diagnosed in approx 10% of men during their lifetime (189,000/yr), where it will claim 31,900 lives each year (13% of male cancer deaths) (1). The recent rising incidence of CaP (2) has plateaued (3), but the high prevalence of this disease and the aging of the US population still makes this a cancer that demands prompt attention. |
