New Study Reveals Most Men with Localized Prostate Cancer Can Avoid Invasive Treatments
🚨👨 Attention all men! A new study has found that most men with localized prostate cancer can avoid invasive treatments without affecting their chances of survival! 👨🚨
Prostate cancer is a serious concern for many men, but there is good news! The latest research shows that invasive treatments may not always be necessary for those with localized prostate cancer. This study, conducted in the United Kingdom, provides critical insights into the treatment of this common cancer.
The Study 📚🔬
According to the study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, most men with localized prostate cancer can avoid invasive treatments without affecting their chances of survival. The study used data collected from the ongoing ProtecT clinical trial in the United Kingdom and followed the men for an average of 15 years. The findings were also presented at the European Association of Urology meeting in Italy.
The study’s lead investigator, Dr. Freddie Hamdy, and Professor Jenny Donovan of the University of Bristol, said that the findings are good news for people with prostate cancer. They stated, “Men newly diagnosed with localized, low or intermediate risk prostate cancer can now use the information from our study to weigh the benefits against the possible harms of radical treatments and do not need to rush to take their decision.”
What Is Localized Prostate Cancer? 🤔
Localized prostate cancer refers to cancer that is confined to the prostate gland and has not spread outside of it. It is typically detected through a PSA screening, which measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Symptoms of prostate problems may include difficulty urinating, a weak or interrupted urine flow, frequent urination, or pain or burning during urination. However, in its early stages, prostate cancer may not cause any noticeable symptoms.
Treatment for Prostate Cancer 🏥💊
Treatment for prostate cancer may include surgery (radical prostatectomy), radiotherapy with hormones, or active monitoring. According to the study, men who practice regular monitoring of prostate cancer have the same survival rates after 15 years as those who choose to do radiotherapy or surgery. The negative effects of surgery or radiotherapy on urinary, bowel, and sexual function were found to persist much longer than previously thought.
It is essential to mention that this study does not mean that people with prostate cancer, even if it is localized, should not continue to be closely monitored or offered treatment. As Dr. Aditya Bagrodia, a urologic oncologist and associate professor of urology disease at UC San Diego Health, stated, “It is absolutely critical to take into account a patient’s overall health, cancer characteristics, and priorities when making these highly individualized decisions on whether or not to treat prostate cancer.”
The Bottom Line 👇
Prostate cancer is a serious concern for many men, but the latest study offers hope. Most men with localized prostate cancer can avoid invasive treatments without affecting their chances of survival. Regular monitoring may be a viable option for those who do not wish to undergo surgery or radiotherapy. If you are concerned about prostate cancer, talk to your doctor about PSA screening and other screening options.
Sources: New England Journal of Medicine, Healthline
