{"id":1819,"date":"2019-07-27T09:26:39","date_gmt":"2019-07-27T13:26:39","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/atlanticurologyclinics.com\/?p=1819"},"modified":"2023-03-31T11:01:22","modified_gmt":"2023-03-31T15:01:22","slug":"prostate-cancer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/atlanticurologyclinics.com\/conditions\/prostate-cancer\/","title":{"rendered":"Prostate Cancer"},"content":{"rendered":"
Prostate cancer is a common form of cancer that affects the prostate, a walnut-sized gland that sits near the urethra and is part of the male reproductive tract. The prostate’s primary function is to produce seminal fluid, an important component of semen. Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in the prostate gland and form a malignant tumor.<\/p>\n
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men worldwide and the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. It typically affects older men, with the majority of cases occurring in those aged 65 and over. While prostate cancer can be aggressive and spread quickly, many cases grow slowly and may not cause significant health issues. Early detection and treatment are crucial for the best outcomes and for reducing mortality rates.<\/p>\n
The exact causes of prostate cancer are not entirely understood, but several risk factors have been identified. Some of the primary risk factors include:<\/p>\n
Having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee that a man will develop prostate cancer. Knowing your risk factors can be helpful in making decisions about screening. Since several of the risk factors are lifestyle-related, addressing them can help lower overall risk.<\/p>\n
In its early stages, prostate cancer often presents no symptoms. As the disease progresses, some men may experience symptoms related to urinary function or sexual performance. Some common symptoms of prostate cancer include:<\/p>\n
These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis. If you are experiencing any of them, it\u2019s important to talk to your doctor, so that a proper diagnosis of what is causing the symptoms can be made.<\/p>\n
Early detection of prostate cancer is important for ensuring the best outcomes. Screening for prostate cancer is generally recommended for men annually beginning at the age of 50. Screening usually consists of two tests:<\/p>\n
If any abnormalities are found with the DRE or PSA test, further testing to determine whether or not there is prostate cancer is necessary.<\/p>\n
Prostate biopsy:<\/strong> During a prostate biopsy, tissue samples are collected from the prostate. The samples are then examined under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present.<\/p>\n Imaging tests:<\/strong> In some cases, imaging tests such as transrectal ultrasound (TRUS), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scans may be used to help visualize the prostate and identify areas of concern.<\/p>\n Once a prostate cancer diagnosis is confirmed through biopsy, the cancer is staged and graded to determine if it has spread as well as its size. The stage and grade of the cancer are important in knowing how to treat the cancer best.<\/p>\n Staging:<\/strong> Prostate cancer staging is based on the size and extent of the tumor, involvement of nearby lymph nodes, and whether it has spread outside the prostate (metastazied). Stages range from I (localized and least advanced) to IV (metastatic and most advanced).<\/p>\n Grading:<\/strong> Prostate cancer grading is determined by examining the cancer cells’ appearance under a microscope. The Gleason score, ranging from 2 to 10, is the most widely used system for grading prostate cancer. A lower Gleason score means the cancer is less aggressive with a more favorable prognosis, while a higher score suggests more aggressive cancer with a worse prognosis. The Gleason score may be combined with other factors to determine the grade group, ranging from 1 (least aggressive) to 5 (most aggressive).<\/p>\n Treatment options for prostate cancer depend on various factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, patient’s age, overall health, and personal preferences. Common treatment options include:<\/p>\n Active surveillance:<\/strong> For low-risk, slow-growing prostate cancer, active surveillance (also known as watchful waiting) may be recommended. This approach involves regular monitoring of the cancer through PSA tests, DREs, and biopsies to detect any changes in the cancer’s growth or behavior.<\/p>\n Surgery:<\/strong> A radical prostatectomy involves the surgical removal of the entire prostate gland and surrounding tissues. This option is often considered for men with localized prostate cancer and good overall health. Surgery can be performed using different techniques, including open, laparoscopic, or robot-assisted procedures.<\/p>\n Radiation therapy:<\/strong> Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy (internal radiation therapy) are the two main types of radiation therapy used to treat prostate cancer.<\/p>\n In cases where the prostate cancer is advanced or hasn\u2019t responded well to surgery or radiation therapy, there are several treatment options available.<\/p>\n Hormone therapy:<\/strong> Hormone therapy, also known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), aims to reduce the levels of male hormones (androgens) that stimulate prostate cancer growth. This treatment can be achieved through medications or surgical removal of the testicles (orchiectomy).<\/p>\n Chemotherapy:<\/strong> Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and is typically used when prostate cancer has spread to other parts of the body or when hormone therapy is no longer effective.<\/p>\n Immunotherapy:<\/strong> Immunotherapy stimulates the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. Sipuleucel-T (Provenge) is an example of a cancer vaccine approved for treating advanced prostate cancer that no longer responds to hormone therapy.<\/p>\n Targeted therapy:<\/strong> Targeted therapies are designed to attack specific abnormalities in cancer cells. Some targeted therapies, such as PARP inhibitors, are being studied for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer in patients with specific genetic mutations.<\/p>\n The prognosis for men diagnosed with prostate cancer varies depending on several factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, the individual’s overall health, and the chosen treatment plan. In general, prostate cancer has a relatively high survival rate, especially when detected and treated in its early stages.<\/p>\n The 5-year survival rate for men diagnosed with localized or regional prostate cancer (cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate or has only spread to nearby areas) is nearly 100%. The 10-year survival rate for these men is approximately 98%, and the 15-year survival rate is around 96%.<\/p>\n For men with advanced prostate cancer that has spread to distant parts of the body, the 5-year survival rate drops to about 31%. However, new advancements in treatment options have led to improvements in survival rates.<\/p>\n Understanding that statistics are general estimates and aren\u2019t reliable to predict an individual’s prognosis. Each case is unique, and survival rates can vary based a number of factors and your urologist and radiation oncologist or oncologist can help you understand your individual prognosis.<\/p>\n While it is not possible to prevent prostate cancer entirely, certain lifestyle changes and habits can help reduce the risk and promote overall health. Some strategies include:<\/p>\n Improving Diet:<\/strong> Consuming a balanced, nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources may help lower the risk of prostate cancer. Foods high in antioxidants, such as tomatoes (containing lycopene), cruciferous vegetables (e.g., broccoli, cauliflower), and green tea, have been associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer. Limiting the intake of red and processed meats, saturated fats, and high-fat dairy products may also be beneficial<\/p>\n Exercising:<\/strong> Engaging in regular physical activity has been shown to lower the risk of various types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week.<\/p>\n Managing weight:<\/strong> Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of aggressive prostate cancer. If you are overweight or obese, work with your healthcare provider to develop a weight loss plan that incorporates a balanced diet and regular exercise.<\/p>\n Quitting smoking:<\/strong> Smoking has been linked to a higher risk of prostate cancer and many other types of cancer. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your overall health and reduce your cancer risk.<\/p>\n Limiting alcohol consumption:<\/strong> Excessive alcohol consumption may increase the risk of prostate cancer. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Current recommendations are for men to drink no more than two drinks per day.<\/p>\n Getting proper screening:<\/strong> Regular prostate cancer screenings can help detect the disease in its early stages when treatment is most effective. Typically, prostate cancer begins annually at age 50. However, your provider may recommend a different screening schedule based on your individual risk factors and medical history.<\/p>\n A prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, not only for the patient but also for their family and loved ones. It is essential to have access to reliable information and support networks to help navigate the challenges of dealing with prostate cancer. Some resources and avenues of support include:<\/p>\n By accessing support and resources, patients and their families can better navigate the complexities of prostate cancer, improve their quality of life, and find hope and encouragement throughout the treatment and recovery process.<\/p>\n https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=fhQHd7861fQ&feature=youtu.be <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\nStaging and grading of prostate cancer<\/h2>\n
Treatment options for prostate cancer<\/h2>\n
Treatment options for advanced prostate cancer<\/h2>\n
Prostate cancer prognosis and survival rates<\/h2>\n
Reducing the risk of prostate cancer<\/h2>\n
Support and resources for patients and families<\/h2>\n
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Info Center<\/h2>\n
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\n <\/a><\/p>\nProstate Health Playbook<\/h5>\n
\n <\/a><\/p>\nAdvanced Prostate Cancer
\nTreatment Fact Sheet<\/h5>\n
\n<\/a><\/a><\/p>\nProstate Cancer Patient Guide<\/h5>\n
What Is A PSA Test?<\/h5>\n
(Video)<\/h6>\n
Prostate Biopsy<\/h5>\n
(Video)<\/h6>\n
Prostate Cancer PSA<\/h5>\n
(Video)<\/h6>\n