Prostate Cancer Treatment

Common prostate cancer treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, High Intesity Focused Radiaiton (HIFU), cryosurgery, chemotherapy, watchful waiting (AKA - active surveillance, conservative management, expectant therapy, objectified observation, etc.). The integration of complimentary therapies can be considered in conjunction with any treatment protocol. Clinical trial participation should also be considered

Be sure to visit the following patient recommended / objective websites for good information on many of the treatments listed above.

• Prostate Cancer Research Institute (visit here first)
• PROSTATEinfo
• Prostate Cancer Institute
• UsToo! International
• Chemotherapy self help guide at the NationalCancer Institue (NCI)
• Chemo Care: Chemotherapy and Beyond

Prior to choosing a treatment option and/or plan, make sure that you fully understand your diagnosis. If you have had surgery, using the Partin Tables can be helpful in estimating your definitive pathological stage. Many professionals suggest a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment.

Two tools some patients find helpful for treatment decision making are:
MD ANDERSON'S TREATMENT GUIDELINES (9,689KB - PDF) and NEXPROFILER TREATMENT OPTION TOOL FOR PROSTATE CANCER

Coverage for treatments can also be a concern for some patients. Please see RESOURCES FOR MEDICATION ASSISTANCE to research helpful programs.

Talking to other men who have been down the road of diagnosis and treatment can be very helpful. If possible, take the time to visit a prostate cancer support group and/or join a Prostate Pointers Mailing List.

back to top

ALTERNATIVE/COMPLIMENTARY THERAPIES
A significant number of prostate cancer patients use complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) as part of their treatment. Work with your doctor(s) to devise an intergrative plan. Landmark Urology and Complimentary Medicine is a North Carolina practice run by Dr. Mark McClure, a well known intergrative Urologist.

back to top

CLINICAL TRIAL PARTICIPATION:
Scientists are now testing a number of promising therapeutic approaches that are only available to patients enrolled in clinical trials. These therapies include anti-angiogenesis compounds, designed to eliminate tumors by targeting their blood supply; gene therapies, which seek to normalize the genetic function of cancerous cells; immunotherapies, which help activate the body's natural defense mechanisms against prostate cancer; therapies designed to stimulate apoptosis, or programmed cell death; and drugs that target regulatory systems in malignant cells. Visit clinical trials search for current clinical trials in North Carolina and throughout the United States.

back to top

The information and opinions expressed on this web site are not an endorsement or recommendation for any medical treatment, product, service or course of action by the Prostate Cancer Coalition of North Carolina or its officers and directors. For medical, legal or other advice, please consult appropriate professionals of your choice.