The epidemiology of prostate cancer in the United States.

OBJECTIVES: To provide a review of prostate cancer epidemiology. DATA SOURCES: Journal articles and the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. CONCLUSIONS: Numerous risk factors for prostate cancer have been identified. Incidence and mortality rates are higher in certain countries and among racial ethnic groups. Environmental and dietary influences are likely to be significant causes of prostate cancer. Distinguishing those cancers that are clinically significant from those that are not remains a central concern in prostate cancer research. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Knowledge of epidemiologic patterns and trends will assist nurses in recognising persons at high risk for the development of prostate cancer and should result in tailored educational interventions.