What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland, a walnut-sized organ in men that produces seminal fluid. It's one of the most common cancers in men, particularly those over 50.
Diagnosis and Staging
Common Diagnostic Tests
- PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test
- Digital rectal examination (DRE)
- Prostate biopsy
- Imaging studies (MRI, CT scan, bone scan)
Understanding Your Gleason Score
Your Gleason score helps determine how aggressive your cancer is:
- Scores 6 or less: Low-grade cancer
- Scores 7: Intermediate-grade cancer
- Scores 8-10: High-grade cancer
Treatment Options
Active Surveillance
For low-risk, slow-growing cancers:
- Regular PSA tests
- Periodic biopsies
- Careful monitoring
Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy)
- Traditional open surgery
- Laparoscopic surgery
- Robotic-assisted surgery
Radiation Therapy
- External beam radiation therapy (EBRT)
- Brachytherapy (internal radiation)
- Combined approaches
Hormone Therapy
- ADT (Androgen Deprivation Therapy)
- Benefits and side effects
Managing Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Urinary incontinence
- Erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Hot flashes (with hormone therapy)
Coping Strategies
- Pelvic floor exercises
- Lifestyle modifications
- Support groups
- Regular communication with healthcare team
Follow-up Care
- Regular PSA monitoring
- Scheduled follow-up visits
- Long-term health maintenance
Support Resources
- Patient support groups
- Online communities
- Counseling services
- Financial assistance programs
When to Contact Your Healthcare Team
Urgent Signs
- Severe pain
- Difficulty urinating
- Fever
- Unusual bleeding
Additional Information
- Diet and nutrition guidelines
- Exercise recommendations
- Stress management techniques