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.

A lot of money has been put into research and awareness so as to ensure that many people stay healthy and reduce their chances of developing this vicious disease. Over the years, it has been discovered that increased intake of tobacco, alcohol and processed foods can increase your chances of developing a particular kind of disease. Also, people are encouraged to frequently indulge in physical activities so as to reduce the chances of getting this disease.

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.

It is important to note that the method of treatment will depend on whether the cancerous cells have spread or not. Early detection enables the doctors to deal effectively with the disease in the early stages when it has not spread. At this stage the cancerous prostate gland can be removed through surgical procedures. After this procedure, a patient undergoes radiotherapy to finish off cancerous cells that could have invaded surrounding tissues.

When a patient is diagnosed with this disease at advanced stages, more strict measures should be taken as the cancer may have spread to other parts of the body. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can be used to kill the cancerous cells that have spread to other parts of the body. At this stage a patient needs close monitoring so as to also treat other problems that result from radiation.

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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