There are various treatments for prostate cancer, including surgery, radiation, and chemo-therapy. However, there are also risks involved, such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Additionally, many prostate cancers grow slowly and cause no symptoms. In these cases, a patient may consider delaying treatment or merely monitoring the cancer for symptoms. A doctor can also prescribe hormonal therapy if symptoms are present. In addition to surgery, prostate cancer patients may undergo other treatments such as monitoring for erectile dysfunction or pain.
While there are a number of risks associated with treatment, most physicians believe that the benefits of hormonal therapy far outweigh the side effects. However, patients should take steps to minimize or prevent any side effects, including quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamin D, calcium, and vitamin E, and receiving comprehensive follow-up care for cardiovascular problems. A multidisciplinary team may also recommend other treatment methods, including surgery and radiation therapy, in order to maximize the chances of a positive outcome.
There are two main types of prostate cancer, acinar and ductal. Adenocarcinomas develop in gland cells that line the prostate gland. Ductal adenocarcinomas begin in the ducts of the prostate gland, and tend to spread faster than acinar adenocarcinomas. However, even with advanced treatment, these cancers still require aggressive measures. They may spread to other parts of the body, including the bones.
During a prostate surgery, many men experience urinary incontinence and impotence. The symptoms generally subside over time. If you experience urinary incontinence after surgery, consult a urologist as soon as possible to avoid a recurrence. However, urinary incontinence can last for years. This can be frustrating, and urologists may prescribe other treatments to help you live a life that is comfortable and free of symptoms.
A high-fat diet increases the risk of developing prostate cancer. While red meat and other animal products may not be the only culprit, consuming high-fat dairy products is a known risk factor. A 2010 study that looked at 101 cases of prostate cancer concluded that the consumption of high-fat dairy products may increase the risk of developing the disease. The study, however, noted the need for further research to confirm these findings. A similar study in 2017 looked at the diets of 525 men who were diagnosed with prostate cancer. Moreover, a 2017 study conducted on the diets of 525 men diagnosed with prostate cancer found that high-fat milk intake increased the progression of the disease, suggesting a role for dairy products in the disease.
A high-risk biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer may result from surgery or radiation treatment. In such cases, regular PSA levels or imaging tests may be recommended to monitor the progress of the disease. While the majority of people with cancer are cured after surgery or radiation, some will still experience a biochemical recurrence. If this occurs, treatment will depend on the type and stage of cancer. For example, a man with a low-risk prostate cancer will have his PSA levels tested every four to six months.
