Treatment for prostate cancer depends on whether cancer is in part or all of the prostate or if it has spread to other parts of the body. It also depends on your age and overall health. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment choice for you.
For cancer that has not spread from the prostate to other parts of the body, your doctor may suggest:
- Watchful waiting, which is also called “active surveillance.” If the cancer is growing slowly and not causing problems, you may decide not to treat it right away. Instead, your doctor will check regularly for changes in your condition. Older men with other health problems often choose this option.
- Surgery. The most common type of surgery removes the whole prostate and some nearby tissue. As with any surgery, there are risks. Talk to your doctor about keeping your sexual function.
- Radiation therapy. This treatment uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Talk with your doctor about possible side effects.
- Hormone therapy. Men who have radiation therapy may also be treated with hormone blockers. This is done if it seems likely that the cancer will come back. Hormone therapy is also used for prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate.
Source: National Institute on Aging
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services