After Prostate Cancer Has Been Diagnosed Tests Are Done To Find Out If Cancer Cells Have Spread Within The Prostate Or To Other Parts Of The Body
The process used to find out if cancer has spread within the prostate or to other parts of the body is called staging. The information gathered from the staging process determines the stage of the disease. It is important to know the stage in order to plan treatment. The following tests and procedures may be used in the staging process:
The stage of the cancer is based on the results of the staging and diagnostic tests, including the prostate specific antigen test and the original tumor biopsy. The biopsy is used to determine the Gleason score. The Gleason score ranges from 2-10 and describes how different the cancer cells look from normal cells and how likely it is that the tumor will spread. The lower the number, the less likely the tumor is to spread.
Notice: In An Effort To Continue Providing Much
Come to cancer Support Community Atlanta for this monthly networking group for men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Group members discuss treatment options and strategies for coping with this specific cancer type, while sharing resources and support. Lunch will be provided.
Facilitated by Mike Luster, LCSW
For more information email or visit cscatlanta.org
Who Can Benefit From Joining A Prostate Cancer Support Group
Men affected by prostate cancer, either directly or indirectly, can benefit from joining a support group. Different hospitals and cancer centers offer support groups for men with prostate cancer and their loved ones. Patients can often find information about these groups on the website of the American Cancer Society.
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Patients Can Enter Clinical Trials Before During Or After Starting Their Cancer Treatment
Some clinical trials only include patients who have not yet received treatment. Other trials test treatments for patients whose cancer has not gotten better. There are also clinical trials that test new ways to stop cancer from recurring or reduce the side effects of cancer treatment.
Clinical trials are taking place in many parts of the country. See the Treatment Options section that follows for links to current treatment clinical trials. These have been retrieved from NCI’s listing of clinical trials.
Dr Barry Zisholtz Hosted A Free Virtual Workshop On Prostate Cancer With Cancer Support Community Atlanta
Georgia Urology is proud to announce a partnership with Cancer Support Community Atlanta by hosting free virtual workshops to provide ongoing support for cancer patients and their loved ones during the coronavirus outbreak.
On Tuesday, June 23, Georgia Urologys Dr. Barry M. Zisholtz and Dr. Ahmed Ali, with Northside Radiation Oncology Consultants, hosted a free virtual workshop on prostate cancer, Frankly Speaking About Prostate Cancer.
The program addressed screening recommendations, how to foster an open dialogue with your healthcare team about treatment options, and side effect management.
Participants had the opportunity to ask questions during this live program.
Date: June 23, 2020
Time: 12:00 p.m. EST
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Stage I Prostate Cancer
Treatment of stage I prostate cancer may include the following:
- Watchful waiting.
- Radical prostatectomy, usually with pelvic lymphadenectomy, with or without radiation therapy after surgery. It may be possible to remove the prostate without damaging nerves that are necessary for an erection.
- External-beam radiation therapy.
- A clinical trial of high-intensity focused ultrasound.
- A clinical trial testing new types of treatment.
Check for U.S. clinical trials from NCI’s list of cancer clinical trials that are now accepting patients with stage I prostate cancer. For more specific results, refine the search by using other search features, such as the location of the trial, the type of treatment, or the name of the drug. General information about clinical trials is available from the NCI Web site.
Our Cancer Programs And Departments
At CTCA, our mission is to provide individualized, whole-person care, personalized to each patients needs, preferences and goals. Thats why CTCA Atlanta has designed cancer-specific centers, programs and departments that deliver expert, comprehensive care to patients with the urgency they need and the compassion they deserve.
Experts on whats available now, and whats on the horizon for myriad of cancer types, the clinicians working in our centers, programs and departments work closely together, under one roof, which helps them reach a diagnosis more efficiently and recommend an individualized care plan, so you can make an educated decision about your treatment. Knowing that fighting cancer is only part of the battle, your care team may also suggest various evidence-supported care services to help you manage the side effects of cancer and its treatment. Each patients team includes a care manager who coordinates your care, helps you handle the details and responds to your questions as they arise.
CTCA Atlanta offers personalized treatments, programs and services for patients with a wide range of cancer types. Highlighted below are just a few of our more prominent programs and departments. Click each to learn more about them, or click the “explore all” button below to see a comprehensive listing of the care options CTCA Atlanta offers.
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Stage Iv Prostate Cancer
Treatment of stage IV prostate cancer may include the following:
- Hormone therapy.
- External-beam radiation therapy with or without hormone therapy.
- Radiation therapy or transurethral resection of the prostate as palliative therapy to relieve symptoms caused by the cancer.
- Watchful waiting.
- A clinical trial of radical prostatectomy with orchiectomy.
Check for U.S. clinical trials from NCI’s list of cancer clinical trials that are now accepting patients with stage IV prostate cancer. For more specific results, refine the search by using other search features, such as the location of the trial, the type of treatment, or the name of the drug. General information about clinical trials is available from the NCI Web site.
Facebook Groups Lead By The Prostate Cancer Foundation
The offer patients, families, and caregivers a place to find support and information. There are many different types of groups available to find one right for you. Some groups are large online communities, while others are facilitated by a mental health professional, a person with cancer, or a medical expert. Whatever your needs, there is a group out there for you.
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Why Genetic Testing For Prostate Cancer Is Important
Who should be tested
- Those with a family history of prostate, breast, ovarian, uterine, colon, pancreatic, melanoma, particularly if early onset
- Men with prostate cancer with a Gleason score of seven or higher
- Metastatic or high to very high-risk localized prostate cancer
- Male breast cancer and prostate cancer in the same man
- Family history of breast or ovarian cancer and Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
- Tumor testing shows mismatch repair deficiency or known variant in a cancer susceptibility gene such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
- Cancer diagnosed at an unusually young age
- Different types of cancer that have occurred independently in the same person
- Cancer that has developed in both organs of a set of paired organs
- Several close blood relatives that have the same type of cancer
- Unusual cases of a specific cancer type
What Are Prostate Cancer Support Groups
For many men, a diagnosis of prostate cancer is a shock. In addition to the physical challenges the disease poses, men must also grapple with cancers emotional and psychological impact. A cancer diagnosis can be a lonely and isolating experience, but support groups provide a forum for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges.
For example, some men may feel isolated and alone when dealing with their diagnosis. Others may struggle with anxiety or depression. A support group provides a forum for men affected by prostate cancer to share their experiences and find strength in a community. Whether dealing with prostate cancer or supporting a loved one through treatment, a support group can be a valuable resource.
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Prostate Cancer Patient Support Group
CancerCare has a 15-week online support group. Co-sponsored by the National Alliance of State Prostate Cancer Coalitions , this group is led by an oncology social worker. It provides a safe place for patients to give and receive support from one another. Youll also have access to useful resources and information while in this group.
Cancer Support Community Atlanta
1100 Johnson Ferry Rd NEBuilding 2, Suite LL90
The Cancer Support Community Atlanta is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to providing a variety of supportive services for cancer patients and their families in a home-like environment in the heart of Atlanta. We provide support groups, informative education programs, a variety of gentle stress reduction and exercise classes, nutrition programs and fun social activities. All classes are offered free of charge and are led by seasoned professionals committed to supporting individuals and families in our community facing cancer.We are also proud of our affiliation with Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, who chose CSC Atlanta to be the provider of their psychosocial oncology services to provide a higher level of support for their patients.
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Free Screening \ Services From Northside Hospital
- Breast Cancer Screenings: Must live in Georgia | be uninsured | 35+ years old | Meet income requirements | Have a written order from your physician.
- Prostate Cancer Screenings: Ages 40 – 75 | Men never been diagnosed with prostate cancer | Haven’t had a prostate exam in the past year | Uninsured or have limited insurance coverage.
- Colorectal Cancer Transportation Assistance Program: Physician appointments | Colonoscopy appointments | Colorectal cancer diagnostic testing | Medication re-rills.
How A Prostate Cancer Support Group Works
A cancer support community may meet in person or online and typically offer educational resources, coping strategies, and emotional support. They offer members a safe space to find encouragement and share their experiences or knowledge. Trained professionals and physicians typically facilitate prostate cancer support groups.
A prostate cancer support group can come in many shapes and sizes. Some are enormous internet communities with many individuals who can respond to your inquiries. A mental health professional might assist someone diagnosed with an illness, the family of someone diagnosed, or a medical expert in a specific area. They may be handled in person, over the internet, or by phone. You might wish to look at a few groups to see which one you are most comfortable with.
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About Cancer Support Community
Cancer Support Community Atlanta, one of the largest nonprofit providers of psychosocial oncology programs, began their services to the Atlanta community in 1997.
Cancer Support Community Atlanta has a strong affiliation with Northside Hospital Cancer Institute and provides services to all individuals affected by cancer in offering support, education, and hope.
To provide ongoing support for cancer patients and their loved ones during the coronavirus outbreak, Cancer Support Community Atlanta is offering the following virtual programs:
- Support Groups: Supports Groups are facilitated by licensed mental health professionals. To participate in a support group with Cancer Support Community Atlanta, please contact Emily Brown at
Get To Know The Ctca Atlanta Team
Surrounding yourself with a team of doctors focused only on treating cancer allows you to explore state-of-the-art options sooner. If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, or are already undergoing treatment, and you’re unsure of what to do, the oncology experts at CTCA Atlanta can recommend a treatment plan that’s individualized to your diagnosis and your needsone designed to help you manage side effects and get back to your life.
Click the links below to learn more about our experts, or if you’re interested in joining a compassionate team making a difference in the lives of cancer patients, explore career opportunities at CTCA Atlanta.
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Get The Personalized Care You Deserve
Our team at CTCA Atlanta is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, to listen, answer your questions, and help you decide whether CTCA is right for you.
One call to our CTCA Atlanta team handles the details: insurance verification and appointment scheduling, whether youre seeking a second opinion or a first-time diagnosis. CTCA also helps coordinate your travel and lodging arrangements, to make your visit as convenient and stress-free as possible.
CTCA Atlanta
Stage Iii Prostate Cancer
Treatment of stage III prostate cancer may include the following:
- External-beam radiation therapy with or without hormone therapy.
- Hormone therapy.
- Radical prostatectomy, with or without pelvic lymphadenectomy. Radiation therapy may be given after surgery.
- Watchful waiting.
- Radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or transurethral resection of the prostate as palliative therapy to relieve symptoms caused by the cancer.
- A clinical trial of radiation therapy.
- A clinical trial of ultrasound -guided cryosurgery.
- A clinical trial testing new types of treatment.
Check for U.S. clinical trials from NCI’s list of cancer clinical trials that are now accepting patients with stage III prostate cancer. For more specific results, refine the search by using other search features, such as the location of the trial, the type of treatment, or the name of the drug. General information about clinical trials is available from the NCI Web site.
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Georgia Man Finds Mission After Prostate Cancer Remission
Prostate cancer survivor advocates for other men
COBB COUNTY, Ga. – Doctors will diagnose one in eight men with prostate cancer during his lifetime. September is prostate cancer awareness month and one survivor is using his story to work to raise awareness.
David Moffetts prostate cancer got detected early. The Cobb County man was just one of more than 250,000 new cases in 2019 and he got lucky. Hes now in remission, but hes also on a mission to educate other men about the need for screening.
“Zero symptoms. I didn’t have any erectile issues, no blood in my urine no pains, or anything like that. I did have a family history. My dad had prostate cancer but never talked about it,” said Moffett.
In a routine yearly checkup, Moffetts doctor told him to see a urologist about elevated numbers. After a biopsy, he learned he had stage 2 prostate cancer.
“The standard of care treatment are surgery to remove the prostate like David had or radiation to destroy the prostate,” said Dr. Paymon Nourparvar, WellStar Health Systems
Moffett was introduced to Dr. Nourparvar who removed his prostate and his cancer in 2019. Today, he remains cancer-free.
“I knew I was doing something personally, but God put it on my heart to pretty much tell me you’re not going to keep this story to yourself. Youre gonna share this and it’s going to be impactful to other men,” said Moffett.
Many men, like Moffett, have a family history of prostate cancer and don’t even know.
Quality Personalized Cancer Care: Thats The Ctca Difference
Every cancer is as unique as the person fighting it. How cancer impacts your body, your health, your emotions, your relationships, your plans for the futureeverything that comes with a diagnosis impacts your life in unique ways. At CTCA, we believe you deserve a team and a care plan that take those factors into account, treating you as an individual, with your own hopes, needs, diagnosis and goals.
Our CTCA Atlanta staff handles the details of your visit, including helping to coordinate your travel and lodging arrangements. Once here, we provide low-cost, organic dining options, transportation services, and patient and caregiver activities, classes and support groups.
Thats the CTCA difference: comprehensive, personalized care delivered by experts in cancer with access to todays evolving technology, working collaboratively, all under one roof.
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Support For People With Prostate Cancer
- Prostate cancer-specific , who provides a highly personalized level of support and guidance throughout diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care
- Oncology-specific dietitians to help patients feel their best by managing their weight, fighting fatigue, and maximizing the immune system throughout treatment
- Oncology-specific social workers to focus on strategies to empower and improve your quality of life with counseling, education and connection to resources
- Psychologists, psychiatrists and counselors who help patients and family members cope with the emotional side of cancer
- Physical therapists who specialize in pelvic floor rehabilitation to improve bladder, bowel and sexual function
- Men’s health specialists, to work with men to treat erectile dysfunction and restore sexual function
Prostate cancer support groups
Patients May Want To Think About Taking Part In A Clinical Trial
For some patients, taking part in a clinical trial may be the best treatment choice. Clinical trials are part of the cancer research process. Clinical trials are done to find out if new cancer treatments are safe and effective or better than the standard treatment.
Many of today’s standard treatments for cancer are based on earlier clinical trials. Patients who take part in a clinical trial may receive the standard treatment or be among the first to receive a new treatment.
Patients who take part in clinical trials also help improve the way cancer will be treated in the future. Even when clinical trials do not lead to effective new treatments, they often answer important questions and help move research forward.
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There Are Three Ways That Cancer Spreads In The Body
The three ways that cancer spreads in the body are:
- Through tissue. Cancer invades the surrounding normal tissue.
- Through the lymph system. Cancer invades the lymph system and travels through the lymph vessels to other places in the body.
- Through the blood. Cancer invades the veins and capillaries and travels through the blood to other places in the body.
When cancer cells break away from the primary tumor and travel through the lymph or blood to other places in the body, another tumor may form. This process is called metastasis. The secondary tumor is the same type of cancer as the primary tumor. For example, if breast cancer spreads to the bones, the cancer cells in the bones are actually breast cancer cells. The disease is metastatic breast cancer, not bone cancer.