Available Prostate Cancer Treatment Options

By Nancy Gardner


Cancer is one of the most common killers of today as most of the people who get diagnosed often eventually succumb to it. Knowing about this disease is important as this can lead to early diagnosis and prompt medication. It is important to note that cancer treatment at the advanced stages is almost impossible thus it is very important that people get to know about the various prostate cancer treatment options.

The main causes of this disease include exposure to radiation and carcinogenic substances. Recent research shows that hereditary factors in some cases can increase the chances of one developing the disease. It has been noted that the increased use of highly processed foods, tobacco, alcohol and lack of physical activity can contribute to development of the disease. It is important for people to make the necessary lifestyle changes so as to reduce their chances of developing the disease.

Cancer of the prostate gland in the male reproductive organ is as deadly as other cancers especially once it spreads to other parts of the body. The most common symptoms of this disease include inflammation of the prostate gland, back and pelvis pains, burning sensation when urinating, weak urine flow and dizziness. It is important to get early diagnosis as it is at that phase that the disease is manageable.

Diagnosis can be done by medical practitioners by using machines such as MRI and trans rectal ultrasound equipment or by conducting physical checks. It is important to note that these methods are confirmed by getting tissue samples from the prostate gland. After confirming that a patient has this disease, doctors first determine the extent of the disease so as to know if the cancer is localized or not.

Advancement in technology has made it possible for people to be easily screened for this particular disease. People with such symptoms can undergo a physical exam to detect any inflammation in the prostate gland. Also, MRI machines and Trans rectal ultrasound equipment can be used to determine if one has this ailment.

At this point radio therapy can be used to ensure the any cancerous cells in the surrounding tissues are eliminated. Another method that can be used is hormone therapy. When undergoing this treatment method, a patient is given drugs that alter the hormone levels thus slowing down the growth of cancerous cells.

A treatment method that has widely gaining popularity today is the high intensity focused ultrasound. This method however is effective for treatment during the early stages when the cancerous cells are still localized. Unlike radiotherapy and chemotherapy, this method of dealing with the disease does not have adverse side effects. Also, one does not need to be hospitalized for days as they receive treatment.

Today, patients are kept under hormone therapy so as to reduce the rate of growth of the malignant cells. For one to increase their chances of survival, they need to see an experienced oncologist and undergo frequent checks. This enables a patient to know if the malignant cells have spread.




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