Stage 3 Cancer: Definition, Diagnosis, Treatment, Prognosis
How Is Prostate Cancer Treated?
Prostate cancer treatment options can include active surveillance, surgery, hormone therapy, and more. Cancer of the prostate begins when cells in the gland change (mutate) and grow out of control, forming a lump or mass called a tumor. Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, your age and overall health, and personal preferences.
The goal of treatment is to either cure the cancer or manage symptoms and prolong life. A multidisciplinary group of healthcare providers called a cancer care team will advise a treatment plan. This team may include a urologist, a radiation oncologist, a medical oncologist, nurses, and other healthcare providers.
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Active surveillance is an approach that involves holding off on treatment until there are signs the disease has progressed. Prostate cancer is often slow-growing, and, for some people, the side effects may outweigh the benefits of treatment. Prostate cancer is considered to be low-risk when the tumor is small and confined to the prostate and does not cause symptoms. It's also considered low-risk when prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests indicate PSA levels below 10. The tumor will be closely monitored with active surveillance, and treatment will only begin if it grows. A cancer care team will want to see you for frequent check-ups, which may include: A PSA blood test and digital rectal examination (DRE) every six months Imaging tests (e.G., transrectal ultrasound) every one to three years Prostate biopsy every one to three years Watchful waiting is a term that is often used interchangeably with active surveillance, but the two are different. Watchful waiting is often advised for older adults or people with life-threatening illnesses who may not benefit from prostate cancer treatments. Follow-up tests to monitor the tumor aren't usually done with this approach. Treatments to manage symptoms may be recommended instead. Surgery is a common treatment approach for prostate cancers that are limited to the prostate gland. This usually involves the removal of the prostate gland and sometimes the seminal vesicles and pelvic lymph nodes. Seminal vesicles are the glands that produce the fluids that eventually turn into semen. Pelvic lymph nodes are the part of the body's immune system that filters lymphatic fluid. The type of surgery will depend on the stage of the disease and your overall health. Prostate surgeries have risks and side effects, as with any procedure. Not everyone experiences these complications, and many are temporary: Radical (Open) Prostatectomy A radical prostatectomy is used when cancer is thought to only be in the prostate gland. It involves the surgeon making an incision in your abdomen from the belly button to the pubic bone. You will be placed under anesthesia so you are not awake and won't feel pain during the procedure. The surgeon will remove the prostate gland and seminal vesicles once they make the incision. They may also remove lymph nodes in the pelvis. Laparoscopic or Robotic Prostatectomy A laparoscopic and robotic prostatectomy are minimally invasive procedures that typically have a short recovery time. The surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen during a laparoscopic procedure. They will insert special long instruments, one of which has a small camera on the end so they can see inside your body, to remove the prostate. Robotic prostatectomy involves the use of robotic instruments to remove the prostate. The surgeon uses a control panel to direct the robotic instruments to perform the surgery and remove the prostate gland. Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) A transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) procedure is sometimes used to relieve symptoms of prostate cancer, not to cure the disease. A surgeon will insert a narrow tube called a resectoscope into the urethra to cut and remove the prostate or burn away the tissue. Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing. This may be suggested as a standalone treatment or used in combination with hormone therapy. Different types of radiation therapy for prostate cancer include external-beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy (internal radiation therapy). Both external and internal radiation therapy can cause side effects. These tend to be mild or moderate and usually resolve once treatment is complete: Bowel problems such as rectal pain, bleeding, and diarrhea Erection problems Fatigue Urinary problems like frequent urination and pain when urinating External-Beam Radiation Therapy External-beam radiation therapy uses a machine outside of the body to focus a beam of X-rays (radiation) on the prostate gland. This type of radiation is often used for early-stage prostate cancer to try to cure the disease or to relieve pain if the cancer has spread to the bones. Radiation treatments are given five days a week for several weeks. Each treatment takes a few minutes. The time it takes to get you set up for the treatment usually takes longer. Brachytherapy Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiation therapy that involves placing radioactive seeds directly into the prostate. These seeds give off radiation to kill off cancer cells when inserted. Low-dose radioactive seeds work up to a year after insertion and are left in the prostate permanently. High-dose seeds are left in the body for about 30 minutes and may need to be repeated one to four times. Focal therapies are minimally invasive prostate cancer treatment options for low- to medium-risk prostate cancers. These may be used in place of surgery and radiation to try to cure prostate cancer. Cryotherapy Cryotherapy uses very cold temperatures to freeze and kill cancer cells. A healthcare provider uses transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) to guide and insert probes (needles) through the skin between the scrotum and rectum to reach the prostate. Cold gasses are sent through the probes to freeze and destroy the tumor and prostate tissues. Side effects of cryotherapy can include blood in the urine, pain in the rectum and bladder, frequent urination, and urinary incontinence. Most side effects are temporary. The freezing process may damage nerves near the prostate that control sexual function and lead to erectile dysfunction. High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) uses ultrasound waves to generate heat and destroy cancer cells. HIFU may be less effective than standard treatments. Some people, however, may opt for this treatment before trying radiation therapy or surgery because HIFU is minimally invasive and does not damage healthy areas of the prostate. Prostate cancer cells use testosterone and other sex hormones to grow. Hormone therapy, or androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), blocks or lowers the amount of sex hormones, essentially starving prostate cancer cells of the fuel they need to survive. Hormone therapy may be administered surgically, orally, or through injection. Different types include: LHRH agonists: Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists are drugs that reduce the amount of testosterone produced by the testicles. These drugs are small implants that are injected or placed under the skin once a month or once every six months. LHRH antagonists: LHRH antagonists work similarly to LHRH agonists. These drugs lower testosterone levels rapidly and may be given as a monthly injection or taken orally once a day. Orchiectomy: This is surgical castration that involves the removal of the testicles, where most sex hormones are made. Most prostate cancers stop growing or shrink after the procedure. The effects are permanent and cannot be reversed. Side effects of hormone therapy include a low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, shrinkage of the penis and testicles, hot flashes, weight gain, fatigue, and loss of muscle mass. These effects are usually short-term and stop once therapy is completed. The long-term risks of hormone therapy include bone loss, heart disease, and diabetes. Chemotherapy (chemo) uses drugs to destroy cancer cells in the body. Chemo is recommended if prostate cancer has spread to other areas of the body. It's not a curative treatment for prostate cancer, but chemo may stop cancer cells from growing and spreading and help people live longer. Chemo drugs used to treat prostate cancer include: Emcyt (estramustine) Jevtana (cabazitaxel) Novantrone (mitoxantrone) Taxotere (docetaxel) Chemo is usually administered via intravenous (IV) infusion, but some drugs are taken orally. Regimens usually involve repeating cycles that include a period of treatment followed by a period of rest. Side effects of chemo drugs vary depending on the person, the drugs used, and the length of treatment. Fatigue, mouth sores, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and bruising or bleeding more easily are common side effects. Most go away once treatment is completed, but some may linger for months or even years. A healthcare provider can prescribe medications to help manage some side effects. Immunotherapy, or biologic therapy, uses medicines that stimulate the body's immune system to attack cancer cells. One type of immunotherapy is called Provenge (sipuleucel-T). Provenge is a vaccine used to treat advanced prostate cancer that has stopped responding to hormone therapy and causes little to no symptoms. The vaccine does not shrink the tumor, lower PSA levels, or prevent cancer from growing, but it can prolong life. Provenge is tailored for each person by mixing their white blood cells with an enzyme produced by the prostate called prostatic acid phosphatase. The mixture is then given intravenously every two weeks for a total of three treatments. Targeted therapy uses drugs that identify and attack specific cancer cells without harming healthy cells. Poly(ADP)-ribose polymerase, or PARP, inhibitors are drugs that block an enzyme that normally helps cells repair DNA damage. These drugs are designed to kill cancer cells by preventing them from repairing their damaged DNA. PARP drugs may be used if a person has BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations and when other treatments are ineffective. PARP inhibitors are taken orally and may cause side effects such as joint and muscle pain, anemia, and nausea. PARP inhibitors used to treat metastatic prostate cancer include: Lynparza (olaparib) Rubraca (rucaparib) Clinical trials are research studies that test new and potentially better ways to treat the disease. Some people with prostate cancer may choose to participate in a clinical trial to get early access to promising new therapies. Others may join a clinical trial if standard treatments have been ineffective for their cancer. Talk to a healthcare provider if you are interested in joining a clinical trial. They can help you decide if one is right for you and find one that may be a good fit. Prostate cancer and its treatment can impact every part of your life. You may be feeling a wide range of emotions, from shock to fear and from anger to anxiety. You may feel worried about your health, finances, and the impact your diagnosis has on your family and career. Having support from your family, friends, and cancer care team can go a long way in helping you cope with your diagnosis and treatments. The good news is that the overall five-year survival rate for prostate cancer is nearly 97%. This rate increases to 100% when the cancer is detected in its early stages. There are many resources available to help you cope with the emotional and physical effects of living with prostate cancer both during treatment and after. Talk to a healthcare provider about the support available. This may include prostate cancer support groups, financial resources to help cover the costs of treatment, and medications to manage symptoms and side effects. Prostate cancer treatment options depend on several factors, including the type and stage of the disease, your age, overall health, and personal preferences. Treatment options include active surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. A cancer care team will recommend treatments to try and cure the cancer if your prostate cancer is discovered in an early stage. Treatments may help stop the cancer from growing and spreading and prolong your life in cases of advanced prostate cancer.Telltale Prostate Cancer Symptom That Shows When You're Peeing
Around one in eight men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, so it's incredibly important that people are aware of the signs and symptoms of the condition.
While the early stages of prostate cancer may not present any notable symptoms, when the cancer causes the prostate to become enlarged it can begin to show itself.
And as symptoms often show in the later stages of the disease, it's crucial that people catch it as soon as they can. A number of factors can play a part in developing prostate cancer, including age and ethnicity.
Men over the age of 50 are at a higher risk of prostate cancer, as are black men. Trans women and non-binary assigned males at birth are also at risk of developing the disease.
The Mirror reports that there is a known genetic link to prostate cancer, so if a father or brother had the disease, you could be at a slightly increased risk. Obesity is another area which research has connected to prostate cancer.
Due to its location, if cancer develops on the prostate, symptoms can be noticed when urinating. For example, pressure on the urethra could cause difficulty in peeing. Others may find that they feel as though they need to pee more frequently, or that they haven't completely emptied their bladder after going to the toilet.
Men who have any of these symptoms should see their GP as soon as possible - to determine if it is cancer or something else, like a prostate enlargement. A doctor will usually carry out a rectal examination, an MRI scan or a biopsy after discussing the best options.
If cancer is found, then there are a number of avenues of treatment depending on how far along the cancer is. Treatments for more advanced cancers include removing the prostate, radiotherapy and hormone therapy.
Top 7 Best Prostate Supplements In 2024
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It is crucial for many men, especially as they age, to uphold their prostate health. A variety of aspects, including genetic factors and lifestyle tendencies, can potentially influence the state of the prostate. Yet, there are also products available in the market that encourage prostate health. Prostate enhancements are some of these advantageous items.
Prostate supplements are dietary supplements designed to support prostate health. They typically contain a blend of vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts that are believed to help promote prostate health and reduce the risk of prostate-related issues. While there are many different types of prostate supplements available, the most effective ones typically contain ingredients like saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, and zinc.
When choosing a prostate supplement, it's important to pay attention to the ingredients list and dosage information. Look for supplements that contain a high-quality blend of ingredients in the proper dosage, and avoid supplements that contain unnecessary fillers or additives. Additionally, it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
We spent hours researching and testing various prostate supplements to identify the best options on the market. In the following sections, we'll share our top picks for the best prostate supplements and provide detailed information on each product's ingredients, dosage, and effectiveness.
Best Prostate SupplementsWe understand that maintaining prostate health is important for men of all ages. That's why we've put together a list of the best prostate supplements available on Amazon. Our team has researched and tested each product to ensure that they are effective and safe. Whether you're looking for natural ingredients or a specific formula, we've got you covered. Check out our top picks below and take the first step towards a healthier prostate.
1. Havasu Nutrition Prostate SupplementWe highly recommend the Havasu Nutrition Prostate Supplement for men who want to maintain their urinary and prostate health.
Pros
Cons
The Havasu Nutrition Prostate Supplement is an excellent choice for men who want to improve their quality of life by supporting their prostate strength. The unique blend of saw palmetto, pumpkin seed extract, and nettle extract helps alleviate prostate and urinary problems.
We appreciate that the supplement is 100% vegan and manufactured with pure, non-GMO ingredients. The 3X Formula is designed to provide the perfect mix of pumpkin seed and stinging nettle extract for natural prostate health.
Although some users may experience an unpleasant smell, we found that the supplement is easy to swallow and doesn't cause any discomfort. It may take time to show results, but we believe that the Havasu Nutrition Prostate Supplement is a reliable choice for men who want to maintain their urinary and prostate health.
In conclusion, we highly recommend the Havasu Nutrition Prostate Supplement for men who want to improve their overall health and well-being.
2. NOW Prostate HealthWe highly recommend NOW Prostate Health for anyone looking for a reliable and effective prostate supplement.
Pros
Cons
We were impressed with the combination of botanicals and nutrients in NOW Prostate Health, which work together to support a healthy prostate gland. The clinical strength saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, and lycopene are all key ingredients that have been used in clinical trials, and we noticed a significant improvement in urinary flow and frequency after taking this supplement for a few weeks.
In addition to the targeted prostate supportive nutrients, NOW Prostate Health also provides additional nutritional support with zinc, selenium, and vitamin D-3. These are all important nutrients that play a role in optimal prostate function.
While it may take a few weeks to notice significant results, we found that NOW Prostate Health was effective in reducing nighttime trips to the bathroom and improving overall prostate health. However, the large softgel size may be difficult for some to swallow, and some users may experience mild stomach discomfort.
Overall, we believe that NOW Prostate Health is a reliable and effective prostate supplement that is worth trying for anyone looking to support their prostate health.
3. Super Beta Prostate AdvancedIf you're looking for a prostate supplement that can help reduce frequent daytime and nighttime bathroom trips, Super Beta Prostate Advanced is a great option to consider.
Pros
Cons
We've been using Super Beta Prostate Advanced for a few weeks now, and we've noticed a significant reduction in our urges to urinate during the day and at night. The supplement is easy to take, and we appreciate that it includes beta sitosterol, lycopene, and reishi mushroom, as well as beneficial nutrients like vitamin D3, zinc, and selenium.
While it may take some time to see significant results, we believe that Super Beta Prostate Advanced is a safe and effective way to support prostate health and reduce frequent bathroom trips. If you're looking for a nonprescription prostate supplement that can help you live the life you want, we recommend giving Super Beta Prostate Advanced a try.
4. Life Extension Ultra Prostate FormulaWe highly recommend Life Extension Ultra Prostate Formula for men who are looking for a comprehensive prostate support formula.
Pros
Cons
We have been using this product for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our prostate health. The formula is sourced using only the finest raw ingredients with the purity and potency our bodies deserve. We appreciate that the majority of Life Extension products are non-GMO, gluten-free, and manufactured in the USA.
Overall, Life Extension Ultra Prostate Formula is a great choice for men who want to maintain a healthy prostate.
5. Double Wood Supplements Prostate Support SupplementIf you're looking for a natural way to support your prostate health, Double Wood Supplements Prostate Support Supplement might be the right product for you.
Pros
Cons
We've tried Double Wood Supplements Prostate Support Supplement, and we're happy to report that it's a great product. Taking one serving a day for 30 days may help reduce bathroom trips and improve quality of life for those with prostate problems. The formula includes Saw Palmetto, Pumpkin Seed Oil, and Selenium, which have been clinically studied to support a healthy prostate and healthy urination habits.
The product is vegan safe, manufactured in the USA, non-GMO, and gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. We appreciate that the company offers a satisfaction guarantee, so if you're not happy with the product for any reason, you can contact them and they promise to make things right.
One thing to keep in mind is that results may vary from person to person, and it may take some time to see noticeable results. Some users may experience mild side effects, although we didn't experience any during our trial.
Overall, we highly recommend Double Wood Supplements Prostate Support Supplement if you're looking for a natural way to support your prostate health.
6. Horbäach Prostate Support ComplexWe highly recommend the Horbäach Prostate Support Complex for those looking for a natural and effective way to support prostate health.
Pros
Cons
The Horbäach Prostate Support Complex is a great option for those looking for a natural and effective way to support prostate health. The herbal blend provides maximum support for the prostate and the convenient extra-strength, quick-release capsules make it easy to take. The superior nutrients in the herbs deliver natural antioxidants and a plethora of other plant properties.
We found that the product worked well for us and we did not experience any negative side effects. However, it may not work for everyone and some users may experience mild side effects. Additionally, the price may be a bit higher than other prostate supplements on the market.
Overall, we believe that the Horbäach Prostate Support Complex is a great choice for those looking for a natural and effective way to support prostate health.
7. ProstaGenix Multiphase Prostate Supplement CapsuleIf you are looking for a prostate supplement that can help you with urinary urgency, frequent urination, and other prostate problems, then ProstaGenix Multiphase Prostate Supplement Capsule is worth considering.
Pros
Cons
ProstaGenix Multiphase Prostate Supplement Capsule is a natural and effective supplement that can help you with prostate problems. After using it for a few weeks, we noticed a significant improvement in our urinary urgency and frequency, and we were able to sleep through the night without any interruptions. The supplement is easy to take, and we did not experience any side effects.
ProstaGenix has a unique formula that combines natural ingredients such as Beta Sitosterol, Saw Palmetto, and Pygeum Africanum to provide maximum prostate support. The supplement is also backed by scientific research and clinical studies, which prove its effectiveness.
Overall, ProstaGenix Multiphase Prostate Supplement Capsule is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a safe and effective prostate supplement. However, it is relatively expensive, and some users may not experience any improvement in their symptoms.
Buying GuideWhen it comes to choosing the best prostate supplement, there are a few key features to consider. We've compiled a list of factors to keep in mind when making your decision:
IngredientsThe first thing to look at when choosing a prostate supplement is the ingredients list. Ensure that the supplement contains natural and safe ingredients that are known to support prostate health, such as saw palmetto, zinc, and pumpkin seed extract. Avoid supplements that contain artificial or potentially harmful ingredients.
DosageThe recommended dosage of a prostate supplement is an important factor to consider. Make sure to follow the recommended dosage on the label and do not exceed it. Taking more than the recommended dosage can lead to adverse side effects.
Quality and PurityIt is important to choose a supplement that is of high quality and purity. Look for supplements that are manufactured in a facility that follows Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and has been third-party tested for purity and potency.
PriceThe price of a prostate supplement can vary greatly. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, keep in mind that quality supplements may come with a higher price tag. Look for supplements that offer a good balance of quality and affordability.
Customer ReviewsReading customer reviews can be a helpful tool in choosing the best prostate supplement. Look for supplements with positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers. However, keep in mind that not all reviews may be genuine, so it is important to do your research and read reviews from multiple sources.
In summary, when choosing a prostate supplement, look for natural and safe ingredients, follow the recommended dosage, choose a supplement of high quality and purity, consider the price, and read customer reviews. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and choose the best prostate supplement for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions What is the best supplement to shrink the prostate?There are many supplements available in the market that claim to shrink the prostate. However, we cannot recommend any specific supplement as the best one because the effectiveness of a supplement varies from person to person. We suggest consulting with your healthcare provider to determine which supplement is best for you.
Do any prostate supplements actually work?Yes, some prostate supplements have been shown to be effective in reducing prostate enlargement and improving urinary symptoms. However, not all supplements are created equal, and the effectiveness of a supplement varies from person to person. It is important to choose a supplement that is backed by scientific research and consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplement.
What shrinks prostate fast?There is no supplement that can shrink the prostate fast. It takes time for a supplement to work, and the effectiveness of a supplement varies from person to person. It is important to choose a supplement that is backed by scientific research and consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplement.
How do I choose a prostate supplement?When choosing a prostate supplement, it is important to look for supplements that are backed by scientific research and contain ingredients that have been shown to be effective in reducing prostate enlargement and improving urinary symptoms. It is also important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplement.
When to take prostate supplements?The best time to take prostate supplements is usually with a meal. This helps to improve the absorption of the supplement and reduce the risk of stomach upset. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the supplement label and consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplement.
Are there any side effects of prostate supplements?Most prostate supplements are generally safe and well-tolerated. However, some people may experience side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, and allergic reactions. It is important to follow the instructions on the supplement label and consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplement.
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