Radiation May Help Enhance Lifespan in Advanced Prostate Cancer

Posted by Rheta Mankin on September 30th, 2015

Enhancing the life expectancy for men with advanced stage prostate cancer is the aim of a recent study conducted in the United Kingdom. While hormone therapy is often the main treatment protocol in these cases, the use of radiotherapy in addition to hormone is soundly showing itself to be beneficial. Researchers are finding, in fact, that combining these two therapies sooner, rather than later, can improve longevity for men.

Current treatment protocols for men diagnosed with advanced stage prostate cancer involve the initial use of hormone therapy. This has been proven to extend life expectancy on its own by starving tumors of the nutrients they need to thrive. This therapy, however, doesn’t work over the long haul. Eventually, it fails and then radiation is recommended. Doctors in Great Britain, however, have found that combining the two therapies sooner can significantly increase survival rates. While radiation may increase some side effect risks, the benefits may outweigh these for many patients.

Prostate cancer is a leading cancer killer of men in the United States. Although highly treatable in its earlier stages, when it is detected in a more aggressive form, at a later stage, mortality rates tend to climb dramatically. The latest research shows that a combined treatment approach may help lessen mortality for men even in advanced stages of the disease.

Men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer should discuss all treatment options with their doctors. Even at later stages, it is often possible to extend life expectancy without dramatically lowering quality of life in the process. The best treatment protocols, however, will depend on the particular case at hand, the risk level of the cancer found and its stage. Men are also strongly urged to undergo routine screening for this disease. Prostate cancer when detected early can often be treated with a high degree of success.

About Author

Southlake Oncology, a Choice Cancer Care Treatment Center, located in the Southlake and Grapevine area, is a community-focused oncology practice that delivers exceptional care to North Texas cancer patients with a variety of cancer diagnoses and blood disorders.

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Rheta Mankin

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Rheta Mankin
Joined: July 2nd, 2015
Articles Posted: 18

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