My father is 69 and was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. What are his treatment options?
Academic Title: Professor
Chair, Department of Urology
Board Certifications:
Urology
Without knowing the exact details of your father’s case, treatment recommendations are difficult. Treatment for prostate cancer needs to be individualized for each man based on several factors including, overall health, other illnesses that may be present, personal beliefs, and characteristics of the prostate cancer.
Some prostate cancer characteristics that need to be considered are the grade of the cancer (Gleason score which is one indicator of aggressiveness), clinical stage (how far the cancer has spread), and PSA level. Based on this information your father should have a discussion with a team that is familiar with all standard options that are available.
Some typical options for early prostate cancer may include active surveillance, surgical removal, some form of radiation therapy while more advanced cases may require hormonal therapy, chemotherapy or immunotherapy. The bottom line for you father is that he needs to make an informed decision choice that included the risks and benefits of all of the options that may be appropriate for him. Best wishes for his future health.