No one wants to hear that they have cancer, but when it comes to prostate cancer, early diagnosis is key. Knowing the five stages of prostate cancer treatment can help you understand what to expect and how best to fight the disease. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment, so work with your doctor to develop a plan right for you.
Let’s talk about the 5 stages of prostate cancer treatment and where you can go to receive this treatment in Phoenix.
Surgery
Surgery is a common treatment option for prostate cancer. The two most common types of surgery are radical prostatectomy and lymph node removal. Radical prostatectomy involves removing the entire prostate gland and surrounding tissues. Lymph node removal involves removing nearby lymph nodes to prevent cancer from spreading. Both surgeries can be performed laparoscopically, which is less invasive than traditional surgery.
Recovery time for laparoscopic surgery is typically shorter than for traditional surgery. Surgery is only recommended for cancers confined to the prostate gland. Other treatment options, such as radiation therapy or hormone therapy, may be more effective for cancers that have spread beyond the prostate.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be administered externally, using a machine to target the cancerous cells, or internally, by placing radioactive implants directly into the tumor. Radiation therapy is often used in combination with other cancer treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy.
While radiation therapy is generally safe and effective, it can cause side effects, such as fatigue, skin irritation, and urinary problems. Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men, and radiation therapy is a common treatment option.
Chemotherapy
According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 90% of prostate cancer cases are diagnosed at an early stage, when the cancer is still confined to the prostate gland. Treatment options for early-stage prostate cancer include surgery, radiation, and hormone therapies.
However, for more advanced stages of the disease, chemotherapy may be recommended. Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. The drugs are typically administered intravenously (through a vein), and they work by damaging the DNA of the cancer cells and preventing them from growing and dividing.
While chemotherapy can be an effective treatment for prostate cancer, it is not without its side effects. The most common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and hair loss. In some cases, these side effects can be severe enough to require hospitalization.
Hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is a treatment option for prostate cancer. The goal of hormone therapy is to lower the levels of testosterone in the body, which can stop the growth of cancer cells. There are different types of hormone therapy, including injectable, implantable, and oral therapies.
Each type of therapy has its own benefits and risks. For example, oral therapy may be more convenient, but it can also have more side effects than other types of hormone therapy. Therefore, it is suggested to talk to your doctor about all your treatment options so as to make the best decision for your individual situation.
Active Surveillance
Active surveillance is a future preventative option for men with low-risk prostate cancer. Active surveillance aims to closely monitor cancer and avoid or delay more aggressive treatment. Active surveillance may involve periodic prostate exams, blood tests, and imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI.
Men on active surveillance typically have regular follow-up appointments with their doctor to assess the status of their disease. Studies have shown that active surveillance is a safe and effective preventative option for men with low-risk prostate cancer or who have had it before. In fact, most men on active surveillance will never need more aggressive treatment.
Prostate Cancer Treatment in Phoenix
If you are suffering from prostate cancer treatment, look no further than Ironwood Urology. Our expert, Dr. Desi Avila Jr. has years of experience in treating a full range of health conditions specific to men, including prostate cancer. Our team will carefully review your symptoms, underlying medical conditions, and medical history to give you an accurate diagnosis and develop a customized treatment plan for you.
If you have any questions about prostate cancer or its treatment, call us today at (480) 961-2323 or request an appointment online.
