Prostate cancer treatment depends on a number of factors. There are different grades and stages of prostate cancer that will determine which treatment is given. Apart from this, doctors may also have a number of opinions about the different treatments based on each patient’s history. Depending on all these factors, the best treatment is finalized based on what is most beneficial for the patient.
Low risk localized prostate cancer
Low risk localized prostate cancer develops very slowly and does not show any noticeable symptoms. The doctors usually suggest active monitoring in this case. Treatments for prostate cancer metastasis usually result in the long term side effects; hence doctors avoid any aggressive treatments until required. However, if the cancer starts developing, your doctor will suggest treatments like cryotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, high frequency ultrasound therapy, prostate seed therapy or harmonetherapy.
Intermediate risk localized prostate cancer
Intermediate risk prostate cancer develops and spread within a short span of time, and doctors will suggest treatments like – surgery removal of prostate or external radiotherapy to the prostate.
High risk localized prostate cancer
High risk prostate cancer will take a couple of years to spread, and doctors normally suggest treatment such as surgery or external radiotherapy to the prostate. Men who are prescribed radiotherapy may also need hormone therapy during the course of treatment. Some men may not be physically fit to undergo surgery, and in such cases doctors recommend hormone therapy.
Locally advanced prostate cancer
Locally advanced prostate cancer surrounds the prostate gland. Regular treatments like surgery or external radiotherapy can be given along with hormone therapy to treat this type of prostate cancer. Hormone therapy is given prior to radiotherapy for 3 to 6 months.
Treatment choices for prostate cancer that has spread
Prostate cancer certainly cannot be cured if it has spread to other parts of the body. However, it is possible to control this by reducing testosterone levels in the body with the help of Hormone Therapy. Hormone therapy can be taken as
- Tablets every day
- Injections every month or every 3 months
- Tablets for a few months, then a break, followed by more tablets, and so on
There are many prostate cancer treatments based on the grade and stage of the cancer. It is extremely important to find a good prostate cancer doctor so that they can treat you with proper care and empathy.