Ask An Expert: Prostate Cancer

I'm a 42-year-old man and have been suffering from prostatitis for the past two years, which seems to come and go. My doctor says this is not uncommon for men my age. I'm worried, though, that this increases my risk of eventually developing prostate cancer. Is there a link? And what can I do to prevent the prostatitis from coming back?

I'm told to make arrangements for a prostrate ultrasound. Why would this test be recommended?

I have had prostatitis three times in the past five years. Can you tell me the cause of this condition, and how to prevent it in the future?

I was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. Does the occurrence of one type of cancer indicate a danger of developing other types?

I am a 66-year-old male. My doctor wants me to have laser prostrate surgery because my bladder is not emptying fully. What are the risks of this procedure?

My doctor says my prostate-specific antigen (PSA) went from 2 to 4. She said this is within the normal range, but that I might want to consider a biopsy of the prostate. If the PSA is within the normal range, why do I need a biopsy? Are there any risks associated with prostate biopsy?

Is hereditary prostate cancer passed on from the mother's side or the father's — and does it matter?

I am 57 and in good health. Why would my PSA levels be running high (3 in 2001, 5 in 2003, 9 in 2008)? I have had two biopsies, and they were both negative. I have no prostate problems.