Prostate cancer care

Awareness and treatment of prostate cancer have improved greatly over the last 20 years. Today, nearly 3 million men in the U.S. who have been diagnosed with the disease are leading longer and more active lives.

At Advocate Cancer Institute, we’re proud to help lead the fight against prostate cancer in the northern Illinois communities we serve. Our multi-disciplinary team – including board-certified urologists, radiation oncologists, specialized nurses and other experts – deliver effective treatments that minimize pain and the side effects that can impact your life. 

Find an Advocate Cancer Institute near you.

Symptoms & risk factors

Early symptoms of prostate cancer may be unnoticeable. Some men experience urinary problems (difficulty urinating, the need to urinate more frequently, pain or burning when urinating), blood in the urine or semen, difficulty having an erection, or frequent pain in the lower back, hips or upper thigh.

Prostate cancer is mostly diagnosed in men over age 65 and becomes increasingly common with advancing age. It also is more common in African-American men than in Caucasian, Hispanic or Asian-American men. A family history of prostate cancer and a diet high in animal fats may increase a man's risk of developing prostate cancer. Men with precancerous cells also have a higher risk for prostate cancer.

Detection & diagnosis

Physicians at Advocate use a number of tests to screen men at high risk or those suspected of having prostate cancer. Annual screenings by your primary care physician are the first line of defense against prostate cancer.

Treatments & therapies

If you’re diagnosed with prostate cancer, rest assured you have some of Illinois’ best experts by your side. Together, our multi-skilled team will work closely with you to create a personal cancer treatment plan, which may include the latest surgical, medical and radiation therapies.

Support for every step

We’re committed to caring for the whole you and providing the resources you and your loved ones need to manage a cancer diagnosis. You’ll find a full range of free or low-cost cancer support services – from education to rehabilitation, nutritional to spiritual counseling, support groups and more empowering programs.