Prostate Cancer Treatment
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting men. It occurs when abnormal cells grow and multiply in the prostate gland, which is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. While prostate cancer can be a serious health issue, it can often be treated successfully with early detection and proper treatment.
There are several treatment options available for prostate cancer, depending on the stage of the cancer, the patient’s age and overall health, and other factors. Some of the most common prostate cancer treatments include:
Active Surveillance
Active surveillance, also known as watchful waiting, is a treatment approach that involves monitoring the cancer closely without immediate treatment. This approach is typically recommended for patients with low-risk prostate cancer, as the cancer may not grow or cause problems for many years.
During active surveillance, patients will undergo regular check-ups, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, digital rectal exams, and biopsies. If the cancer shows signs of progression, treatment options may be reconsidered.
Surgery
Surgery is a common treatment option for prostate cancer. The most common type of surgery for prostate cancer is radical prostatectomy, which involves removing the entire prostate gland and nearby lymph nodes.
Robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy is becoming increasingly popular. In this procedure, the surgeon uses robotic technology to control surgical instruments and remove the prostate gland through small incisions.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is another common treatment option for prostate cancer. It involves the use of high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells in the prostate gland. There are two types of radiation therapy: external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.
External beam radiation therapy involves directing radiation beams at the prostate gland from outside the body. Brachytherapy involves the insertion of small radioactive seeds directly into the prostate gland.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy is a treatment option for advanced prostate cancer, where the cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland. It involves the use of medications to block or reduce the levels of male hormones (androgens) in the body, which can fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is another treatment option for advanced prostate cancer. It involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy is typically reserved for patients with advanced prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a newer treatment option for prostate cancer. It involves the use of medications to stimulate the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells. Immunotherapy is currently being studied in clinical trials to determine its effectiveness in treating prostate cancer.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are ongoing research studies that test new treatments for prostate cancer. They are designed to determine the safety and effectiveness of new treatment options. Patients who participate in clinical trials may have access to treatments that are not yet available to the general public.
When choosing a treatment option for prostate cancer, patients should consider several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the patient’s age and overall health, and the potential side effects of the treatment.
Some potential side effects of prostate cancer treatments include:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Urinary incontinence
- Bowel problems
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Hair loss
Patients should discuss the potential risks and benefits of each treatment option with their healthcare provider before making a decision.
In addition to medical treatments, there are several lifestyle changes that patients can make to manage their prostate cancer and improve their overall health. These may include:
- Eating a healthy diet that is low in fat and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Exercising regularly
- Managing stress
- Quitting smoking
Prostate Cancer Treatment at the Wiener Privatklinik
Renowned for its multidisciplinary approach, WPK Central European Academy Cancer Center is one of the most comprehensive private cancer diagnostic and treatment center in Central and Eastern Europe and Austria. Discover prostate cancer treatment in Vienna at the Wiener Privatklinik.