Prostate cancer remains a prevalent form of cancer, yet it is highly treatable, with over 90% of patients surviving at least five years post-diagnosis. Treatment strategies vary based on the cancer’s stage and aggressiveness, as well as patient preferences.
Bloom notes that some men may require treatments such as surgery, hormonal therapy, radiation treatment, or specialized focal therapy like high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). “Developing a treatment plan comes down to the stage and aggressiveness of the prostate cancer as well as the individual’s goals and preferences,” says Bloom.
For those with intermediate or advanced stages of prostate cancer, surgical removal of the tumor might be necessary. At Wilmot Cancer Institute, robotic surgery is commonly used for prostatectomies. Despite being less invasive, this procedure can lead to side effects including incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
Radiation therapy for prostate cancer includes external beam radiation and brachytherapy. Hong Zhang, MD, PhD from Wilmot Cancer Institute explains that brachytherapy involves placing radioactive material inside the prostate either permanently or temporarily. “With brachytherapy, it eliminates a lot of the radiation exposure to the normal tissue,” Zhang states. This method can deliver high-dose radiation safely while sparing nearby organs but may cause temporary urinary symptoms post-procedure.
Chemotherapy is less frequently utilized for prostate cancer but can be beneficial when the disease has metastasized. Its side effects include nausea, appetite loss, fatigue, weight loss, and hair loss.
Clinical trials play a crucial role in advancing prostate cancer treatment by exploring new therapies and improving quality of life given its already high cure rate.
Wilmot Cancer Institute stands out in regional prostate cancer care through its multidisciplinary approach and research initiatives aimed at enhancing treatment methods.
