Prostate Cancer: Frequently Asked Questions
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate, a small, walnut-shaped gland responsible for producing fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical in managing the disease and preventing it from spreading to other parts of the body.
What are the signs of prostate cancer?
In the early stages, prostate cancer often doesn’t show any symptoms. As the cancer advances, however, you may experience:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pain in the bones
- Discomfort in the pelvic area
- Blood in your semen
- Difficulty urinating
- A weakened urine stream
If you’re at higher risk for prostate cancer, regular screenings can help detect the condition early, even before symptoms appear.
Who is at risk for prostate cancer?
While prostate cancer can affect any man, several factors may increase your risk, including:
- Advancing age
- African American ethnicity
- Obesity
- Family history of prostate cancer
Additionally, erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence can sometimes be complications arising from prostate cancer or its treatments.
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If you are at risk for prostate cancer or notice any unusual urinary symptoms, don’t wait to seek help.
How does a urologist diagnose prostate cancer?
To diagnose prostate cancer, your urologist will perform a physical examination and discuss your medical history and symptoms. They may recommend several diagnostic procedures, such as:
- Digital rectal exams (DRE)
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests
- Genetic and biomarker testing
- High-definition ultrasounds
- MRI fusion biopsies
- Multiparametric MRIs
- Targeted and saturation biopsy techniques
- Pre-biopsy PCR testing
At Infinihealth Medical Group, skilled specialists use cutting-edge diagnostic tools and prostate mapping to ensure precise results and optimal outcomes. They also offer sedation during prostate biopsies, ensuring the procedure is comfortable and nearly painless.
What treatment options are available for prostate cancer?
Treatment for prostate cancer varies depending on the stage and specifics of your condition. Some common options include:
- High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) HIFU uses targeted ultrasound waves to destroy cancerous tissue within the prostate without the need for surgery or radiation. This approach specifically targets the cancer while preserving the prostate gland.
- Robotic Surgery Robotic-assisted procedures, such as the da Vinci prostatectomy, offer precise removal of cancerous tissue with minimal invasiveness, promoting faster recovery and greater accuracy.
- Radiation Therapy Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to destroy cancer cells in or near the prostate gland.
- Additional Treatments Other treatment options may include active surveillance, hormone therapy, cryotherapy, PulseWave therapy, and pelvic floor therapy for managing complications like erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence.
If you are at risk for prostate cancer or notice any unusual urinary symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Contact the experienced team at Infinihealth Medical Group today to schedule an appointment by phone or online.