latest prostate cancer treatments

Prostate cancer treatment options are constantly evolving. This guide provides an overview of the latest prostate cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. It also discusses emerging treatments currently under investigation.Understanding Prostate CancerProstate cancer begins when cells in the prostate gland start to grow uncontrollably. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland in men that produces seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. Understanding the stage and grade of your cancer is crucial in determining the most effective treatment plan. Consult with your oncologist at Shandong Baofa Cancer Research Institute or your primary care physician for a thorough evaluation.Traditional Prostate Cancer TreatmentsSurgeryRadical prostatectomy is the surgical removal of the entire prostate gland and some surrounding tissue. There are several surgical approaches: Open Prostatectomy: This involves a traditional incision in the lower abdomen. Laparoscopic Prostatectomy: This minimally invasive approach uses small incisions and specialized instruments. Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy: A surgeon controls robotic arms to perform the surgery with greater precision.The choice of surgical approach depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and the surgeon's experience. According to the American Cancer Society, robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy is becoming increasingly common due to potential benefits such as reduced blood loss and shorter hospital stays 1.Radiation TherapyRadiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. There are two main types: External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Radiation is delivered from a machine outside the body. Techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) can precisely target the cancer while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation Therapy): Radioactive seeds are implanted directly into the prostate gland. There are two types: high-dose-rate (HDR) and low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy.The choice between EBRT and brachytherapy depends on the stage and grade of the cancer, as well as the patient's preferences and medical history. Some patients may receive both types of radiation therapy.Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy - ADT)Hormone therapy aims to lower the levels of male hormones (androgens), such as testosterone, which can fuel prostate cancer growth. ADT can be administered through: LHRH Agonists (Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone Agonists): These medications lower testosterone levels. LHRH Antagonists: These medications rapidly lower testosterone levels without an initial surge. Anti-Androgens: These medications block the effects of androgens in the body. Orchiectomy: Surgical removal of the testicles, which are the main source of testosterone.Hormone therapy is often used in combination with other treatments, such as radiation therapy. It's also used to treat advanced prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.ChemotherapyChemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It's typically used to treat advanced prostate cancer that is resistant to hormone therapy. Common chemotherapy drugs used to treat prostate cancer include docetaxel and cabazitaxel.Emerging Prostate Cancer TreatmentsImmunotherapyImmunotherapy helps the body's immune system fight cancer. One type of immunotherapy approved for prostate cancer is sipuleucel-T (Provenge), a vaccine that stimulates the immune system to attack prostate cancer cells. Other immunotherapy approaches, such as checkpoint inhibitors, are being investigated in clinical trials.Targeted TherapyTargeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target cancer cells without harming healthy cells. Examples include: PARP Inhibitors: These drugs block PARP enzymes, which help repair damaged DNA in cancer cells. They are used to treat prostate cancer with certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. Radiopharmaceuticals: Radium-223 dichloride (Xofigo) is a radiopharmaceutical that targets bone metastases in prostate cancer.Clinical TrialsClinical trials are research studies that test new treatments for cancer. Patients may consider participating in clinical trials to access cutting-edge therapies that are not yet widely available. Talk to your doctor to see if a clinical trial is right for you, or contact the Shandong Baofa Cancer Research Institute's research department. Treatment Selection and Side EffectsThe best treatment plan for prostate cancer depends on several factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, the patient's age and overall health, and their preferences. It's essential to discuss all treatment options with your doctor and understand the potential benefits and risks of each. Each treatment carries the possibility of side effects, and these should be discussed thoroughly with your care team at Shandong Baofa Cancer Research Institute.Common side effects of prostate cancer treatments include: Surgery: Urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction Radiation Therapy: Fatigue, bowel problems, urinary problems, erectile dysfunction Hormone Therapy: Hot flashes, fatigue, loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, bone loss Chemotherapy: Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, hair loss, mouth sores Immunotherapy: Fatigue, fever, chills, nausea Targeted Therapy: Varies depending on the specific drugProstate Cancer Treatment ComparisonThis table summarizes the key aspects of different latest prostate cancer treatments: Treatment Mechanism Common Side Effects Typical Use Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy) Physical removal of the prostate gland Urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction Localized prostate cancer Radiation Therapy Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells Fatigue, bowel problems, urinary problems, erectile dysfunction Localized or locally advanced prostate cancer Hormone Therapy (ADT) Lowers levels of male hormones (androgens) Hot flashes, fatigue, loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, bone loss Advanced prostate cancer, often in combination with other treatments Chemotherapy Uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, hair loss, mouth sores Advanced prostate cancer resistant to hormone therapy Immunotherapy Helps the body's immune system fight cancer Fatigue, fever, chills, nausea Advanced prostate cancer (specific types) Targeted Therapy Targets specific molecules in cancer cells Varies depending on the specific drug Prostate cancer with specific genetic mutations or bone metastases Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. For more information visit Shandong Baofa Cancer Research Institute.1 American Cancer Society. (n.d.). How is Prostate Cancer Treated?. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/treatment.html