What is the function of the prostate?
Dr. Gingrich: We don’t really know. It isn’t really necessary for sexual function or reproduction. It does add a small amount of fluid to the semen. Q: At what ages do you suggest which type of rectal exam? Dr. Gingrich: The rectal exam for prostate cancer is with a finger. Sometimes we use an ultrasound machine to look at the prostate. Q: Is prostate cancer hereditary? Dr. Gingrich: We believe about 10% of prostate cancers are inherited. Q: I had prostate removal surgery five weeks ago, tests at that time showed the cancer was outside the prostate. I was started on the three-month shots that reduce testosterone. Should there be any other steps now in fighting this cancer? Dr. Gingrich: No one knows for sure. We will be opening a trial soon in which men receive a year of hormone therapy with or without some chemotherapy. We are hoping that this aggressive treatment early after surgery will help prevent recurrences in the future. It is unclear whether radiation should be done now or not
