Prostate cancer can be a scary diagnosis, but it’s important to know that there are several treatment options available to patients.

The best course of treatment will depend on a number of factors including the stage of the cancer, the patient’s age and overall health, and the patient’s personal preferences. Here are some of the most common treatment options for prostate cancer.

Active Surveillance

For some patients, especially those with low-grade or early-stage prostate cancer, active surveillance may be an option. This involves monitoring the cancer closely with regular check-ups, imaging tests, and biopsies.

If the cancer starts to grow or spread, treatment can be initiated at that time. Active surveillance may be a good choice for patients who are older or who have other medical problems that make surgery or radiation therapy risky.

Surgery

Removal of the prostate gland, known as a prostatectomy, is a common treatment for prostate cancer.

Surgery is typically recommended for patients with early-stage or localized prostate cancer, and may also be an option for some patients with locally advanced prostate cancer. The surgery can be performed through a small incision in the abdomen (known as a laparoscopic prostatectomy) or through a larger incision (known as an open prostatectomy).

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is typically given in multiple sessions over the course of several weeks.

Radiation therapy may be used as the sole treatment for early-stage or localized prostate cancer, or in combination with surgery for locally advanced prostate cancer. There are two main types of radiation therapy: external beam radiation therapy, which is delivered from outside the body, and brachytherapy, which involves the placement of radioactive seeds directly into the prostate gland.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy may be used in conjunction with other treatments or as a primary treatment for patients with advanced prostate cancer.

This type of therapy works by blocking the production or action of male hormones (such as testosterone) that can fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells. Hormone therapy may involve the use of medications or the surgical removal of the testicles, where most of the body’s testosterone is produced.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is typically used in patients with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer that is not responding to other treatments. This type of treatment involves the use of drugs that work to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Chemotherapy may be given intravenously or orally, and is usually given in cycles with periods of rest in between.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy involves the use of extreme cold to destroy cancerous tissue. This treatment is typically used in patients with locally advanced prostate cancer who are not candidates for surgery or radiation therapy.

Cryotherapy may be performed using a probe inserted through the rectum, or through small incisions in the skin of the perineum (the area between the scrotum and the anus).

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) uses focused ultrasound waves to destroy cancerous prostate tissue. This treatment is typically used in patients with early-stage prostate cancer who are not candidates for surgery or radiation therapy.

HIFU may be performed through the rectum or through the skin of the perineum. This treatment is still considered experimental in the United States.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that works by boosting the body’s immune system to better fight cancer cells. It may be used in combination with other treatments or as a standalone therapy for patients with advanced prostate cancer.

Immunotherapy may involve the use of medications or vaccines.

Bone-Directed Therapy

Bone-directed therapy may be used in patients with advanced prostate cancer that has spread to the bones. This type of therapy works by inhibiting the activity of cells that break down bone, and may involve the use of medications or radiation therapy.

Bone-directed therapy can help to reduce pain and lower the risk of fractures.

The Bottom Line

There are several treatment options available to patients with prostate cancer, and the best course of treatment will depend on a number of factors including the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health and preferences.

It’s important to discuss treatment options and potential side effects with your healthcare team to determine the best approach for you.