The prostate gland, found in males, makes some of the fluids that are a part of semen. And the location of the prostate is below the bladder in front of the rectum. Prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate gland start to grow out of control. Slow, interrupted, or painful urination are the usual symptoms of this condition. Here are some of the treatment methods for prostate cancer that can help you live a better life:
Observation or Active Surveillance
Sometimes, doctors recommend observation, watchful waiting, or active surveillance for patients in whom the prostate cancer grows very slowly. Active surveillance is when the doctor conducts regular tests and exams. Prostate biopsies may be done every 1 to 3 years, and if the test results change, the doctor may start other treatment options to cure prostate cancer. Observation is a less invasive process than other treatments, with fewer tests required.
Surgery
One of the main treatment methods for prostate cancer is surgery. Surgery is done if the prostate cancer has not spread outside the prostate gland. The main type of surgery is a radical prostatectomy. Radical perineal prostatectomy is another surgery performed for prostate cancer. This surgery can also be done laparoscopically and is known as laparoscopic prostatectomy.
Radiation Therapy
Another one of the treatment methods for prostate cancer is radiation. Depending upon the stage of prostate cancer and other factors, doctors suggest radiation therapy. Cure rates with this method are good for those with low-grade cancer. The main two types of radiation therapy for prostate cancer are external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy internal radiation. In EBRT, radiation beams are focused on the prostate gland from a machine outside the body. Brachytherapy is used in men with early-stage prostate cancer. Brachytherapy with external radiation is used for those who have a higher risk of cancer growing outside the prostate.
Cryotherapy
Also called cryosurgery or cryoablation, cryotherapy is the use of low temperatures for freezing and killing prostate cancer cells and a major part of the prostate. Cryotherapy is done in men with low-risk early-stage prostate cancer who cannot undergo surgery or radiation therapy.
Hormone Therapy
Also called androgen suppression therapy, hormone therapy aims at reducing the levels of a male hormone called androgen, to stop fuelling prostate cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
One of the common treatment methods for prostate cancer, chemotherapy employs anti-cancer medications that are administered intravenously or orally. This option is used if the prostate cancer has spread outside the prostate gland and hormone therapy is not working.
Immunotherapy
In Immunotherapy, medicines are used to stimulate the immune system and help it to recognize and destroy cancer cells effectively.
After the diagnosis of prostate cancer, the treatment plan will depend on many factors, including the age of the patient and the stage of cancer. Choose your treatment plan carefully after close consultation with your doctor.