Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men by incidence in the global population. However, while it is more common in developed countries, with approximately 75% of new cases occurring in developed nations, it accounts for only 12% of the total incidence and is only the 10th most common cancer in Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC).

Prostate cancer generally affects men aged 65 years and above. More than 77% of new prostate cancer cases in BRIC were aged 65 years and above in 2010. Prostate cancer affects the prostate gland cells and can spread to other cells in advanced stages. In most cases, no treatment is required for many years after diagnosis, as more than 65% of cases of prostate cancer progress very slowly.