is a treatment option that may be less traumatic than RP and appears to have similar results when used in early-stage patients. Radiation also produces side effects, including impotence, in about half of patients. It can be applied through an external beam that directs the dose to the prostate from outside the body. FDA also has cleared low-dose radioactive "seeds," each about the size of a grain of rice, that are implanted within the prostate to kill cancer cells locally. Called brachytherapy, the seeding technique is sometimes combined with external-beam radiation for a "one-two punch." Studies done at the Georgia Center for prostate cancer Research and Treatment show that 68 percent of men treated with both radiation methods applied simultaneously are cancer free 10 years after treatment." , in which prostate tumors are killed by freezing, shows encouraging early results. But some medical professionals consider it experimental with not enough long-term data yet to determine its effectiveness. is often used in all phases of prostate cancer treatment to help block production or action of the male hormones that have been shown to fuel prostate cancer. Among widely used approved hormone blockers, often used in combination, are Lupron (leuprolide acetate), Casodex (bicalutamide), Eulexin (flutamide), Nilandron (nilutamide), and Zoladex (goserelin acetate implant). Because the testicles produce male hormones, some men also undergo testicle removal to cut off the hormone supply. Advanced prostate cancer patients are usually treated with any number of chemotherapeutic drugs such as Novantrone (mitoxantrone), which do not cure the disease but often do ease pain and other symptoms. [from Federal Citizen Information Center (FCIC) - Understanding Prostate Changes: A Health Guide For All Men]
"Some treatment options for someone diagnosed with prostate cancer is to undergo radiation and chemotherapy. Depending at which stage of cancer you are in, this may be your best option."
The blood test for PSA is used to screen older men to detect prostate cancer at an early stage, and also to monitor its response to treatment.
The risk of prostate cancer recurrence following brachytherapy depends on several factors, including the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer, the initial treatment response, and the expertise of the medical team. While brachytherapy is an effective treatment for many men with prostate cancer, there is still a small risk of recurrence. Close monitoring with regular PSA tests and follow-up appointments is essential to detect any signs of recurrence early and initiate appropriate treatment if needed.
If a person is diagnosed with prostate cancer early, the prognosis is excellent in most cases. Intervention methods include surgery and radiation. There are some more virile forms of prostate cancer which progess very quickly, but the majority are quite reaponsive to surgery and/or radiation treatments.
With early detection, 98% of men with prostate cancer survive for five years.
Prostrate cancer is treated in one or a number of ways depending what stage and type of disease is present. Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone treatment and also active surveillance are all options.
Bleeding after urination is never normal. With regards to the prostate, bleeding can indicate prostatitis or a possible bladder infection, or early-stage prostate cancer. See your doctor or urologist immediately for an evaluation.
There are many different types of cancers in the world. There are cancers such as bladder cancer, breast cancer, endometrial cancer, colon cancer, kidney cancer, thyroid caner and many others.
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland, which is a small, walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. The prostate gland plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system, as it produces some of the fluid that combines with sperm to create semen. Prostate cancer occurs when cells within the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably. Over time, these cancerous cells can form a tumor and potentially spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, particularly in older age, and it can vary widely in terms of its aggressiveness and potential to spread. It's important to note that not all prostate cancers are the same. Some prostate cancers are slow-growing and may not cause significant health problems, while others are more aggressive and can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early. Due to this variation in aggressiveness, prostate cancer management often involves careful monitoring, evaluation of the cancer's characteristics, and personalized treatment decisions. Regular screening for prostate cancer, typically through a blood test called the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and a digital rectal examination (DRE), is essential for early detection. Early-stage prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms, making screening even more crucial. Treatment options for prostate cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these approaches, depending on the stage of cancer, the aggressiveness of the tumor, and the patient's overall health. As with any cancer, early detection and timely intervention are key factors in improving outcomes for individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer. Therefore, it's essential for men, particularly those at higher risk due to factors like age, family history, or ethnicity, to discuss prostate cancer screening and risk factors with their healthcare providers.
PSA stands for Prostate Specific Antigen. The prostate is constantly renewing itself or growing. At the same time, the body is producing antigens to try to destroy the prostate as if it were a foreign body. The faster the prostate produces new cells, the faster the body produces PSA.. If there is a cancer in the prostate, the cancer cells are prostate cells, but they are produced much faster than normal prostate cells. As a result, when the man has prostate cancer, it can be detected by measuring his PSA. The PSA reading must be compared to the individual's normal PSA reading to know whether he has prostate cancer. When a prostate cancer is being treated, the PSA reading can be compared to earlier PSA readings to determine whether the cancer is receding or growing. A PSA of 6 is rather high and probably indicates there is prostate cancer growth.
Late stage prostate cancer metasticizes to the bones. This may be the reason.
The life expectancy for someone diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer can vary widely based on several factors, including age, overall health, response to treatment, and specific characteristics of the cancer. On average, men with stage 4 prostate cancer may live for several years, with a median survival rate often reported between 2 to 5 years. However, some individuals may live longer, particularly with advancements in treatment options. It's crucial for patients to discuss their specific situation with their healthcare team for a more personalized prognosis.