Questions & Answers About Prostate Cancer
Receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis is a difficult experience, and leaves patients and their caregivers feeling anxious and overwhelmed. What is prostate cancer? What are the treatment options? What are the sources of support? The only text to provide both the doctor’s and patient’s point of view, 100 Questions & Answers About Prostate Cancer, Fifth Edition provides authoritative, practical answers to these questions, and many more. This updated Fifth Edition provides a comprehensive discussion of what you can expect post-diagnosis along with patient commentary to give you a real-life understanding of what these steps might mean for your day-to-day life. This book is an invaluable resource for anyone coping with the uncertainty of a prostate cancer diagnosis.
What You Should Know About Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the second-most common type of cancer found in American men, after skin cancer. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with prostate cancer, one of the first things you can do is educate yourself about the disease and available treatment options.
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is cancer that occurs in a mans prostatethe walnut-size gland in the male reproductive system. It is located below the bladder in front of the rectum and surrounds the upper part of the urethra, the tube that empties urine from the bladder. The prostate helps regulate bladder control and produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.
How common is prostate cancer?
Thirteen out of every 100 men in America will get prostate cancer at some point in their lives, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . Out of those thirteen, two to three will die from prostate cancer. Age is the most common risk factor. As you age, the risk of developing prostate cancer continually increases.
What causes prostate cancer?
It isn’t yet known what specifically causes prostate cancer, but there are several risk factors for the disease, including age and ethnicity.
Is prostate cancer genetic?
What are symptoms or signs of prostate cancer?
Early prostate cancer usually causes no symptoms. Typically, it’s found by a PSA test or digital rectal exam.
When should I start testing for prostate cancer?
Which doctors are involved in diagnosing prostate cancer?
Are There Any Other Books In This Series
Are there any other books in this series?
Yes, the following titles are available in the 100 Question and Answers series: Advanced and Metastatic Breast Cancer, Liver Cancer, Myeloma, Lymphoma, Kidney Cancer, Lung Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Cervical Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Life After Cancer, Caring For Friends or Family with Cancer, Mesothelioma and Melanoma and other Skin Cancers.
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An enlarged prostate can also be the cause of other problems. If the enlarged prostate is causing symptoms, the best treatment would be a natural remedy. In the meantime, there are treatments for a wide range of conditions that cause a man to experience pain. A common surgical procedure involves an electric loop, laser, or electro-stimulation. The procedure is a safe and effective option for treating enlarged or symptomatic BPH.
When Deciding On A Treatment Plan
- How likely is my cancer to cause problems if Im not treated right away?
- Should I consider watchful waiting or active surveillance as an option? Why or why not?
- Do you recommend a radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy? Why or why not?
- Is laparoscopic or robot-assisted prostatectomy an option for me?
- What types of radiation therapy might work best for me?
- What other treatment might be right for me? Why?
- Am I eligible for any clinical trials?
- What risks or side effects should I expect from my treatment options?
- What are the chances that I will have problems with incontinence or impotence?
- What are the chances that I will have other urinary or rectal problems?
- If these side effects happen, are they treatable?
- How quickly do I need to decide on treatment?
- What should I do to be ready for treatment?
- How long will treatment last? What will it be like? Where will it be done?
- How might treatment affect my daily activities?
- What are the chances my cancer will come back with the treatment plans wehave discussed? What would be our next step if this happened?
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What You Need To Know About The Prostate 100 Questions And Answers About Prostate Cancer
A enlarged prostate can also cause blockages in the urethra. A blocked urethra can also damage the kidneys. A patient suffering from an enlargement of the prostate may have pain in his lower abdomen and genitals. If pain is present, a digital rectal examination will reveal hard areas. A doctor may prescribe surgery or perform an endoscopic procedure. If the enlarged prostate is not completely removed, it will shrink.
While the size of an enlarged prostate will influence the extent of urinary symptoms, men may experience a range of urinary symptoms. Some men have minimal or no symptoms at all. Some men will have a very enlarged prostate, whereas others will have a mild enlargement. Generally, the symptoms can stabilize over time. Some men may have an enlarged prostate but not notice it. If they have an enlarged colon, their physician can perform a TURP procedure.
Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Asking questions of your doctor may help you make more informed decisions about your care. Open communication between a patient and his doctor is extremely important. Here are answers to some common questions prostate cancer patients should ask their doctors:
What is a prostate-specific antigen level?
PSA is a substance produced by both the healthy prostate and prostate cancer. A PSA test is used primarily to screen for prostate cancer. The levels of PSA in the blood may be higher in men who have prostate cancer or other conditions. A PSA test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen in your blood. The PSA test may detect high levels of PSA that could indicate the presence of prostate cancer. However, many other conditions, such as an enlarged or inflamed prostate, may also increase PSA levels.
What is a Gleason score?
A Gleason Sum of seven may mean the cancer is likely to grow and spread at a modest pace. Some of these patients are candidates for active surveillance, while others should be treated immediately.
A Gleason Sum between eight and 10 may mean the cancer is likely to grow and spread aggressively. These patients are high risk and require immediate treatment.
How much experience do you have treating my type and stage of prostate cancer?
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Questions About Prostate Cancer Treatment
Treatment for prostate cancer depends on many factors, including the type and location of the disease. Here are the answers to some common questions about prostate cancer treatment:
Should I consider surgery?
A radical prostatectomy is a surgical procedure in which the prostate is removed, along with any nearby tissue that contains prostate cancer cells. This is a common treatment for localized prostate cancer. The da Vinci® Surgical System allows the surgeon to offer this procedure using a minimally invasive approach.
There are two options, open or laparoscopic surgery:
- In an open radical prostatectomy, a surgeon makes a single long incision to remove the prostate.
- In a laparoscopic prostatectomy, which may be performed using robotic assistance, the surgeon uses a mechanical device to remove the prostate via several small incisions. This may sometimes result in a quicker recovery time.
Is radiation therapy an option for me?
At Cancer Treatment Centers of America® , our radiation oncologists use a variety of therapies and tools to deliver maximum radiation doses, with less damage to healthy tissues and organs. Focusing the radiation directly on the prostate may lower the risk of side effects. Our range of radiation therapy options includes external beam radiation therapy, stereotactic body radiation therapy, high-dose rate brachytherapy and, increasingly less common, low-dose rate brachytherapy.
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Symptomatic treatment of an enlarged prostate usually involves a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables may be the best option if you suffer from chronic urination. It will help the body adjust to the increased size of the prostate. Also, taking regular urination intervals will help retrain the bladder to function properly. Inactivity also contributes to urine retention, and cold temperatures can increase the urge to urinate.
Invasive treatment of enlarged prostate includes medication that relieves the pressure on the urethra and bladder. However, if the condition is severe, it may require surgical intervention. If treatment is not successful, the enlarged prostate can become a potentially life-threatening disease. As the hormone levels in the body change, the enlarged prostate can lead to various complications, including urinary retention and even cancer. This is why it is critical to see a doctor for further evaluation.
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The Initial Causes 100 Questions & Answers About Prostate Cancer
One of the first symptoms of prostate issues is pain or tenderness in the groin or lower back. This can be the result of a noncancerous condition called enlarged prostatic tissue, or it could be an infection of the bladder. In either case, its important to see a doctor as soon as possible. If youre suffering from prostate pain, you may want to consider reducing your caffeine intake.
Another symptom of a potentially enlarged prostate is difficulty starting a stream of urine, leaking, or dribbling. These symptoms are not serious, but theyre still alarming. Most men put up with an enlarged prostate for years before seeking medical attention, but they typically seek treatment as soon as they notice symptoms. Even if you dont have symptoms, its worth getting checked to determine if you have any prostate issues.
If you experience nightly bathroom runs, you may be experiencing an enlarged prostate. You may be having difficulty starting a stream of urine, or you may even be dribbling or leaking during the day. These problems arent life-threatening, but can become a nuisance. You should not ignore these signs and seek treatment as soon as you notice them. If you feel any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor.
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Surgical procedures to remove the diseased prostate are usually necessary. Surgical procedures are not always necessary. If the disease is caused by bacterial infections, a doctor can treat the symptoms using alpha-blockers or surgery. Physical therapy, relaxation exercises, and warm baths are all recommended. A physician may also prescribe antibiotics to cure the infection. A bacterial infection can also cause a recurrence of the condition.
An enlarged prostate can be uncomfortable for both men and women. Some of the symptoms of an enlarged male reproductive organ include a weakened urine stream, urgent need to urinate, and urinary tract infections. BPH can also cause damage to the kidneys. A sudden inability to urinate can be life-threatening, as it can lead to bladder and kidney damage. Unfortunately, most men with enlarged prostrates put up with the symptoms for years before they seek treatment. However, many of the men with symptoms finally decide to go to a doctor for proper gynecological evaluation and to begin enlarged prostatic therapy.
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What Is The Added Benefit Of Reading 100 Questions And Answers About Prostate Cancer
100 Questions and Answers about Prostate Cancer has been written by an expert in the field of prostate cancer Dr Pamela Ellsworth. She covers topics such as diagnosis, treatment and treatment options, quality of life, support systems and survivorship. A patient and doctor perspective are given throughout the book to ensure answers are not biased or one-sided.
The range of questions will provide advice and information that you may be too nervous to ask about, such as prognosis rates or sexual function after treatment. As well as help provide answers to questions that can be difficult to understand due to medical language, such as what are the different types of treatment.
The Initial Causes 100 Questions And Answers About Prostate Cancer
One of the first symptoms of prostate issues is pain or tenderness in the groin or lower back. This can be the result of a noncancerous condition called enlarged prostatic tissue, or it could be an infection of the bladder. In either case, its important to see a doctor as soon as possible. If youre suffering from prostate pain, you may want to consider reducing your caffeine intake.
Another symptom of a potentially enlarged prostate is difficulty starting a stream of urine, leaking, or dribbling. These symptoms are not serious, but theyre still alarming. Most men put up with an enlarged prostate for years before seeking medical attention, but they typically seek treatment as soon as they notice symptoms. Even if you dont have symptoms, its worth getting checked to determine if you have any prostate issues.
If you experience nightly bathroom runs, you may be experiencing an enlarged prostate. You may be having difficulty starting a stream of urine, or you may even be dribbling or leaking during the day. These problems arent life-threatening, but can become a nuisance. You should not ignore these signs and seek treatment as soon as you notice them. If you feel any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor.
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Who Would Benefit From Reading 100 Questions And Answers About Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most predominant cancers worldwide. It will affect millions of people a year. Not just those diagnosed, but family, friends and caregivers. 100 Questions and Answers About Prostate Cancer can provide helpful advice and knowledge for anyone affected by prostate cancer, not just those diagnosed.
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When Youre Told You Have Prostate Cancer
- What are the chances that the cancer has spread beyond my prostate? If so, is it still curable?
- Do I need any other tests before we decide on treatment?
- Should I see any other types of doctors before deciding on treatment?
- What is the clinical stage and grade of my cancer? What do those mean to me?
- If Im concerned about the costs and insurance coverage for my diagnosis and treatment, who can help me?
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What You Need To Know About The Prostate 100 Questions & Answers About Prostate Cancer
A enlarged prostate can also cause blockages in the urethra. A blocked urethra can also damage the kidneys. A patient suffering from an enlargement of the prostate may have pain in his lower abdomen and genitals. If pain is present, a digital rectal examination will reveal hard areas. A doctor may prescribe surgery or perform an endoscopic procedure. If the enlarged prostate is not completely removed, it will shrink.
While the size of an enlarged prostate will influence the extent of urinary symptoms, men may experience a range of urinary symptoms. Some men have minimal or no symptoms at all. Some men will have a very enlarged prostate, whereas others will have a mild enlargement. Generally, the symptoms can stabilize over time. Some men may have an enlarged prostate but not notice it. If they have an enlarged colon, their physician can perform a TURP procedure.
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Another type of prostate issue is chronic prostatitis, or chronic pelvic pain syndrome. This condition causes pain in the lower back and groin area, and may cause urinary retention. Symptoms include leaking and discomfort. In severe cases, a catheter may be required to relieve the symptoms. If the problem is unresponsive to other treatments, your doctor may suggest a surgical procedure. If these do not work, your symptoms could progress and become chronic.
An acute bacterial infection can cause a burning sensation. Inflammation of the prostate can affect the bladder and result in discomfort and other symptoms. This is the most common urinary tract problem in men under 50, and the third most common in men over 65. The symptoms of acute bacterial prostatitis are similar to those of CPPS. Patients may experience a fever or chills as a result of the infection.
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