Prostate cancer is a serious disease that affects millions of men across the world. Understanding the symptoms and treatment options available is critical for early detection and successful treatment.
What Is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland, a small walnut-shaped gland in men. It occurs when cells in the prostate gland begin to grow and multiply abnormally, forming a tumor.
This type of cancer is more common in older men, with the average age of diagnosis being around 66 years old. African American men are more likely to develop prostate cancer than other racial and ethnic groups. Men with a family history of prostate cancer, particularly a father or brother with the disease, are also at higher risk.1 While prostate cancer can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
Prostate Cancer Treatment Options
There are several treatment options available for prostate cancer, and the best approach depends on a variety of factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, the age and overall health of the patient, and personal preferences. Some common treatment options for prostate cancer include:2
- Surgery: Surgery to remove the prostate gland, known as a prostatectomy, is a common treatment option for prostate cancer. This can be done through traditional open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, or robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells. It can be delivered externally, using a machine outside the body, or internally, using radioactive seeds implanted directly into the prostate gland.
- Hormone therapy: Prostate cancer cells rely on male hormones, such as testosterone, to grow. Hormone therapy works by blocking the production of these hormones, which can slow or stop the growth of prostate cancer cells.
Other treatment options for prostate cancer may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and watchful waiting or active surveillance, which involves monitoring the cancer closely without immediate treatment.
Advanced Prostate Cancer: Breakthrough Treatments
Xtandi (enzalutamide), Erleada (apalutamide), and Nubeqa (darolutamide) are three breakthrough treatments that offer hope to men with advanced prostate cancer. These drugs belong to a class of medications known as androgen receptor inhibitors, which work by blocking the action of male hormones that can fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells. Overall, these breakthrough treatments represent an important advancement in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer, offering hope to men who may have few other options.
Learn More Today!
Prostate cancer may present significant challenges, but effective treatment is out there. To better understand your options and stay informed about the latest developments in prostate cancer treatment, consider doing more research, which can provide comprehensive and up-to-date information. Understanding the signs of prostate cancer can save lives! It’s worth taking the time to understand it.