Treating Prostate Cancer

All but ignored by men when they’re younger, the prostate begins to loom large when men reach a certain age. Most often to blame is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an enlargement of the gland — about the size, shape and weight of a walnut — with an array of troublesome urinary tract symptoms. It’s estimated that BPH plagues 50% of men between 51 and 60 and as many as 90 percent of those 80 and older.

Read More: Difficulty Urinating and Other Signs of Prostate Problems

The prostate is also the site of a more worrying problem. In the U.S., one man in eight will develop prostate cancer, making it the most common cancer among American men after skin cancer. According to National Cancer Institute estimates, there will be roughly 268,000 new cases of prostate cancer in the U.S. in 2022.

“The good news is that most will survive it,” says Dr. Michael Porrazzo, a board-certified radiation oncologist at Beaufort Memorial New River Cancer Center in Okatie.

As with all types of cancer, early diagnosis increases the likelihood of a successful outcome. Prostate Cancer Awareness Month (September) serves to remind men at average risk for prostate cancer that after 50 they should consider an annual PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, screening. Though opinions differ on who will benefit from the test, a discussion with his primary care provider can help a man determine if the PSA screening — a simple blood test — is right for him.

Read More: Prostate Cancer Screenings: The Facts

Dealing With the Diagnosis

For a patient diagnosed with prostate cancer, the most important thing is to learn about the treatment options from physician specialists.

"Patients are generally assigned to risk groups that aid in determining treatment strategies. For some, active surveillance or androgen deprivation therapy alone may be appropriate, though these are not curative," Dr. Porrazzo says. The potentially curative treatments include surgery and radiation therapy, which should be discussed with a board-certified urologist and a board-certified radiation oncologist, respectively. To determine which is more appropriate for an individual patient, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of each treatment strategy.

During the initial consultation at New River Cancer Center, the radiation oncologist reviews a patient's medical record, defines the risk groupings and explains the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommendations for treatment. The patient then receives extensive education and counseling regarding radiation therapy.

“I encourage patients to ask questions to ensure a good understanding of the discussions with their cancer care team and allay fears,” Dr. Porrazzo says.

As for the radiation therapy treatments themselves, a key goal is to create a relaxing atmosphere in what otherwise can be a stressful situation. To that end, the Beaufort Memorial New River Cancer Center in Okatie is equipped with the Varian Halcyon™, a state-of-the-art linear accelerator that significantly shortens treatment time.

"Patients are frequently surprised at how quickly and quietly the treatments are delivered," Dr. Porrazzo says. The Halcyon™ system’s greatest benefit is that its advanced technology assures a high degree of treatment accuracy, which improves treatment outcomes and minimizes side effects for the patient.

To make an appointment at the New River Cancer Center, please call 843-273-7980.