Prostate Cancer Treatment and Methods

Prostate cancer is among the most common types of cancer in men. The treatment approach is determined by the stage of the tumor, the patient’s overall health, age, and personal preferences. During the treatment process, not only the potential benefits but also possible side effects and risks are carefully considered.

Treatment Methods for Prostate Cancer

The stage and extent of prostate cancer are considered the most important criteria in treatment selection. Cancer stages are generally classified from I to IV, with stage IV representing the most advanced stage. Physicians create an individualized treatment plan based on the progression of the disease, the patient’s overall health, and the severity of symptoms. If the tumor is low-risk, the condition may simply be monitored without immediate treatment, with greater emphasis placed on adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Main Treatment Methods for Prostate Cancer:

Hormone Therapy

Testosterone plays a key role in the growth of prostate cells. For this reason, testosterone production can be suppressed with medication, or the testes can be surgically removed. This helps slow the progression of cancer.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves administering drugs intravenously or orally to destroy cancer cells. Treatment is usually given in cycles. Side effects may include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and digestive issues, with additional therapies applied if necessary to manage these effects.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells.

• External beam radiation therapy: Radiation is directed from outside the body.
• Brachytherapy (internal radiation): Radioactive sources are placed inside the prostate.

It is often used after surgery to eliminate remaining cells or as a stand-alone treatment. Side effects may include frequent urination, painful urination, erectile dysfunction, and bowel problems.

Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy)

If the cancer is confined to the prostate, surgical removal of the gland and surrounding tissue may be recommended. This can be performed through:

• Open surgery
• Laparoscopic surgery
• Robotic-assisted surgery

In many cases, pelvic lymph nodes are also removed. Potential side effects include urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction.

Cryosurgery

Under ultrasound guidance, needles are inserted into the prostate to freeze and thaw tissue rapidly, destroying cancer cells in the process.

Supportive Therapies

Targeted therapies

In patients with certain genetic mutations, PARP inhibitors or radioactive drugs may be used, showing promising results especially in advanced prostate cancer.

Immunotherapy

Although not yet widespread, drugs such as sipuleucel-T can stimulate the immune system to fight cancer.

Palliative Care

In advanced stages, while complete removal of the tumor may not be possible, palliative care focuses on improving quality of life by controlling pain, managing urinary issues, and treating bone metastases.

Lifestyle and Rehabilitation

Throughout and after treatment, maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight control are crucial. Rehabilitation programs may also be introduced to address sexual health concerns and urinary control problems that arise post-treatment.

For personalized evaluation and treatment options, schedule an appointment with our Urology Department.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prostate Cancer Treatment

Which treatment method is the most effective for prostate cancer?

This depends on the stage. In early stages, surgery or radiotherapy may be applied, while in advanced stages, hormone therapy and chemotherapy are preferred.

Does hormone therapy completely cure prostate cancer?

Hormone therapy slows cancer growth and alleviates symptoms, but it is not considered a definitive cure.

What are the side effects of radiotherapy?

Common side effects in prostate cancer treatment include frequent urination, painful urination, bowel problems, and erectile dysfunction.

What is life quality like after surgery?

Some patients may experience urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction. However, most improve over time, and rehabilitation support can enhance quality of life.

Can advanced prostate cancer be treated?

Although complete cure is difficult in advanced stages, modern therapies can extend survival and help maintain quality of life.