Prostate Cancer Radiation Treatment for Better Removal of Cancer Cells

Each year, millions of men are affected by prostate cancer and it is a common condition that affects men who are between the ages of 40 and 80; it can be present in younger men, but it is very uncommon.

This cancer is the leading cause of death for men who are 75 years and up, and people who have greater risk of developing this disease include older men, African American men, men who consume high quantities of alcohol, men who eat high-fat diets and men who are exposed to certain chemicals.

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in a man's prostate, which is a small gland that is located in a man's reproductive organs. There are many symptoms of this cancer such as slow urination, blood in the urine, pain while urinating, stinging while urinating, bone pain, tenderness and urine leakage.

There are several treatments for this cancer, but the most common treatments are prostate cancer radiation and chemotherapy. Prostate cancer radiation treatment is commonly referred to as the X-ray therapy. What this treatment does is it uses radiation to help kill off the cancer cells in the body. This treatment is supposed to stunt the bad cell's growth and help keep the healthy cells functioning.

The very prostate cancer radiation works is that a large machine in the radiation room produces the radiation. This machine then directs the radiation towards the body, and then, the radiation is directed toward the prostate through minuscule tubes that are placed in the cancer-affected areas; this is known as external radiation. Internal radiation therapy for this cancer includes placing a device in the actual tumor. Both internal and external radiation therapy can be either permanent or temporary; it is up to the doctor to decide.

When receiving this cancer radiation, it is important to consume a balanced diet. A good diet will allow the patient to recover from the side effects of radiation, which include changes in skin, hair loss, sun sensitivity, enlarged pores, fatigue, vomiting, dizziness, skin darkening, thicker skin tissue, erectile dysfunction and pain while urinating. Consuming foods rich in nutrients will allow your body to recover from all the stress it is being put under while receiving prostate cancer radiation treatment.

Prostate cancer radiation is a highly effective treatment that can help prolong your life. This treatment may cause some changes in your lifestyle, but as long as you eat a healthy diet, exercise mildly and keep your spirit up, you will get through the radiation therapy for this cancer.

How To Live, With Prostate Cancer

I am not a doctor, so I can't and shouldn't give medical advice. But I am a survivor, so I can tell the story of my journey.

I want to be really frank, transparent even with this short read, but don't let brevity distract from the potency of the message. For some who read this, it could well be life saving.

Every man aged 40 & over should read this account and pass it on to their families, friends and peers. For that matter every woman with a 40 plus man in her life or family should read this, and share it widely.

Prostate cancer is one of those sneaky afflictions that sneaks up on men unannounced, and without much, or any warning. But once it has us in its clutches, it is often too late to do anything about it.

At around age 50 my doctor, or GP, started doing blood tests to measure PSA levels. Results were, hmm, OK; in low single digits; don't worry too much about it was the prognosis.

And over the next few years results bounced up & down a bit, but generally trended upwards. The key here is, of course, that regular testing over a period of time is critical, and not simply a one off test as it is the trend that is important.

Oh yes, I shouldn't forget the DRE... I had all those fairly uncool digital rectal inspections. When you see, and hear, your GP pulling on those latex gloves, you kind of think this is definitely not cool. Does this make you feel great? No, not really.

My prostate was enlarged, not hugely, but noticeably. This, I was told, was not necessarily anything to worry about, as it could occur without anything cancerous going on; and in any case, if not cancerous this could be treated successfully.

I was also experiencing some bladder issues; again, nothing that could be deemed conclusive regarding cancer, but just another thing going on that required watching.

Actually, I was finding it harder to 'go' at times. And whilst it might have been harder to actually 'go', the need was certainly more frequent: I was having to get up during the night 2-3 times regularly.

The most embarrassing thing was going to the public urinals and standing alongside lots of other men, doing what you do; or trying to. It's frustrating and embarrassing standing there waiting; and waiting; for the flow to start.

When my PSA reached around 7, my GP recommended I see a specialist. I was a bit ho-hum about this, but like all good patients did as I was told. After all, he was my doctor, and should know what he is doing.

I'd already had an ultrasound, which was also inconclusive and didn't reveal anything suspicious so my specialist, having looked over these results, told me a biopsy was the next best step, where they go in and cut out some small core samples for analysis.

So, a few days later I was admitted, anesthetized, and the next thing I knew I was laying there trying to wake up. Job done. Another nice experience? Not really.

The wait for the results was a bit of a challenge but pretty soon, there they were. Positive! I had 5 positive results for Prostate Cancer out of the group of 12 samples.

Straight away I was dispatched for a series of very thorough scans & x-rays from head to foot; the results from these too were nothing too concerning, and it looked like the cancer had not began to spread, or metastasize.

My Gleeson score of 6 was getting up there; on the threshold of medium risk, but not yet drastic.

The specialist gave me a list of options including leave it for a few months, to radiotherapy, to radical surgery.

I thought about this for a while... about 5 seconds, and said let's go in and get that sucker.

So, quite quickly I was introduced to a really, really good surgeon who reviewed all the information and we decided to get on with it as soon as possible. We did further scans to get a better picture of what was going on, and be more sure that it hadn't spread.

There was a delay of about six weeks to make sure I had no residual issues from the biopsy, and promptly after that I was admitted to hospital for robotic surgery.

I decided to go for robotic rather than conventional surgery as the potential recovery time was much quicker, and there seemed to be fewer post operative issues.

The operation went really smoothly, and after about six hours I had my eyes open again; the robotic nerve sparing surgery was very successful; and next day I was up on my feet. A bit tender, but getting around.

Amazingly, I had virtually no pain; and no bleeding. Nursing staff were really surprised at my recovery post operation and my surgeon told me that I make him look good; but I think, too, that my friend God had His fingerprints on this procedure as well.

I was discharged 48 hours after the operation and part of the deal was having to have a catheter and a leg bag for a week; not one of my favorite activities, but all part of the process I was told.

A week later I went in and had the catheter and bag removed. At last!

They made me drink liters and liters of water for a few hours, carefully measuring what came out; and checked just how I was holding it all in.

I had been prepped to expect that I would be incontinent for some time; probably for a few months; and possibly for many months. This would mean wearing pads to soak up those 'unfortunate leaks'.

But, much, much to the surprise of the nursing staff I had no incontinence; at all, so didn't have to wear pads and all of that stuff. Cool.

The next thing was my pathology results. The affected parts were sent away for analysis to see just how developed the cancer was. Results soon came back and confirmed that in fact it was more developed than we had thought, so getting in quick was vindicated.

Now, I'm maintaining a watching brief for several years to see that no further complications arise.

Oh, and by the way, all the plumbing problems went away.

Moral to this story:

Each year in my home country of Australia 20,000 new cases of prostate cancer are diagnosed; and each year almost 3300 men die from prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer often has no symptoms, and is not necessarily confined to older men; it is often easy to treat if diagnosed early.

If you are a male aged 40 or over, go see your doctor and get a checkup. If he says no need to worry yet, insist, or go see another doctor.

The greatest risk for men is complacency, and the fear of having it checked out. Men, generally, are late presenters; they don't go to their doctor unless they really have to. This reason alone means many men have prostate cancer develop unawares, and by the time symptoms are experienced, it is too late.

Knowing More About Prostate Cancer and Its Effects

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosed in American men. In 2009, over 206,000 men in the United States were diagnosed with the disease. The cancer begins in a man's prostate, a gland that creates seminal fluid and transports sperm. Some types of the disease grow slowly and do not require treatment, but other more aggressive types spread quickly.

The medical community does not know exactly what causes prostate cancer, but the disease begins when cells in the gland become abnormal. The abnormal cells contain mutated DNA that causes them to divide and grow faster than normal cells. These abnormal cells outlive normal cells, forming a tumor as they accumulate.

Doctors have identified some risk factors for developing the cancer. Older men are more likely to develop the disease, and it is most common in men over the age of 65. African American men are also more likely to have the cancer, and it is typically more aggressive in this demographic than among men of other races. The risk of developing the disease is also greater for men who have a family history of prostate cancer and those who are obese.

In its early stages, the cancer often does not cause signs or symptoms. More advanced stages of the cancer may cause blood in the urine, bone pain, trouble urinating, discomfort in the pelvic area, decreased streaming of urine, swelling in the legs or blood in the semen.

Some medical organizations recommend regular prostate screenings for men in their 40s. These screening tests may include digital rectal exams or prostate-specific antigen tests. These tests may help identify the cancer in its earliest stages. If the screening tests lead to abnormal results, a doctor may recommend an ultrasound or prostate biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer.

Doctors grade the cancer using tests like ultrasounds, CT, MRI or bone scans. During stage I, the cancer is confined to a very small part of the prostate gland, and the cancer cells are not labeled aggressive. During stage II, the cancer has grown to involve both sides of the gland, or the cancer cells are considered aggressive. Stage III is diagnosed when the cancer has spread beyond the gland to nearby tissues. During stage IV, the cancer has invaded other parts of the body, like the bladder, lungs or bones.

The treatment plan prescribed for this type of cancer varies depending on the patient's overall health, the cancer's stage and other factors. Treatment may include radiation therapy, hormone therapy, cryotherapy, surgery or chemotherapy.

Prostate Cancer - How to Help Your Spouse Dealing With Prostate Cancer

When your spouse has been diagnosed with prostate cancer it is important to let him know that you are there to support him. This is extremely important as he will be facing a number of unknown risks. A diagnosis of prostate cancer will actually be a life changing situation for both of you. This is why one of the most important things you can do is to assure him that you love him and that you will be there to support him in any way you can. Your love and support during this time will enable him to obtain the best results from his treatment.

A diagnosis of prostate cancer is typically made after a man has sought a physical exam due to prostate problems. This can be due to difficulty in urinating or incontinence. The physician will perform an exam including a digital rectal exam. This is an exam which checks for prostate abnormalities. A biopsy must be done in order for the physician to make a diagnosis of prostate cancer. If the results are positive for cancer the physician will discuss various treatment options. Typically, the physician will make recommendations for the treatment plan believed to give the patient the best possible outcome for recovery.

You and your husband can also do your own research about prostate cancer to learn more about this disease. You can also familiarize yourself with information concerning various treatment plans.This will enable you both to discuss the pros and cons of treatment. This lets him know that you are there for him and want the best possible outcome for him. Give him total freedom to discuss his fears with you. Also encourage him to seek another opinion. Most treatments for prostate cancer involve surgery, hormone or radiation therapy. These all have significant risks which you should be aware of. Learning as much as you can will enable you both to make an informed decision.

The most common reactions a man has after receiving a diagnosis of prostate cancer are fear, anger, depression and uncertainty about their future. Many men are extremely depressed after learning they have prostate cancer. During this time it is important that you do all you can to keep his spirits lifted. Don't allow him to sit home alone and depressed. Invite friends or family members over to encourage him and to help lift his spirits. Also, plan other social activities as it is important to keep him surrounded with loving, positive people.

Once your spouse is diagnosed with prostate cancer make every effort to improve his diet. This would involve making sure he eats more fruits and vegetables. Also, reduce his consumption of red meat, dairy foods and foods high in sugar. This will help improve his immune system which will help him to be able to defeat the cancer.

Finally, have him join a support group for cancer patients. Some hospitals have support groups just for patients while others have support groups for patients and their spouses. These groups allow patients to discuss their concerns and fears with other patients. This lets them know that they are not alone in their battle. These groups enable patients to discuss things with a sense of safety and a willingness to help each other in their battle against cancer. It is important to do all you can to keep your spouse motivated both during and after their treatment.

Prostate Cancer in Men

Cancer of the prostate is deliberated as one of the most well-known types of cancer among men. Prostate cancer commonly develops in a rather sluggish manner and is initially confined to the prostate gland. This location of the cancer cells does not generally cause severe harm. These cancer cells behave differently; some develop gradually and may need least management and treatment, while other types are belligerent and spread rapidly.

Cancer of the prostrate arises in the prostate gland of a man. Men's prostate is generally a small gland that mimics a shape of a walnut and is located just inferior to the bladder. The prostate synthesizes the fluid (seminal fluid) which nourishes the sperm and aids in its transport.

Most prostate cancer propagates gradually, slowly and is contained primarily within the confines of the prostate gland, but it can metastasize to neighboring local lymph nodules, or further distant regions even to the bones. Some uncommon kinds of this type of cancer are a lot more hostile and spread fast. Successful treatment of prostate cancer is mostly attributed to its early detection; that is, while the cancer is still confined to the prostate and has not yet metastasized to other organs.

Cancer of the prostrate ranked number 3 as the record common reason of cancer mortality in men; men under 40 years old are rarely diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Men who are thought to be at greater risk comprise:

    Men of African-American origin
    Men aging 60 and above
    Men with family history of cancer
    Exposure to carcinogens
    Alcohol abuse
    High animal-fat diet
    Exposure to cadmium

Many possible factors are linked to acquiring prostate cancer such as:

    Age: This is well-thought-out as the main risk element. The risk of acquiring this type of cancer increases with age.
    Genetics: Researches show that African-American men are more likely to acquire cancer of the prostrate compared to other racial groups.
    Diet: A study on men exclusive to a diet rich in red meat shows an increased probability of getting cancer of the prostrate; while those men in a high-vegetable diet to include soy and green tea are known to have lesser odds of developing the disease.
    Medication:Various studies claim there could be a connection between the regular use of anti-inflammatory drugs and prostate cancer. Statins, which are used to decrease levels of cholesterol, may possibly lessen a person's danger of acquiring cancer.
    Obesity: Most patients diagnosed with prostate cancer are found to be obese. There are numerous researches that show the relation between obesity and cancer. The incidence of metastasis of the cancer cells is also higher in people who are obese.
    Sexually transmitted diseases: Men with history of gonorrhea were found to have an increased chance of acquiring cancer of the prostrate.