Prostate Cancer Treatment in Clinton, NC

Carolina Urology Healthcare provides patients who are experiencing symptoms of prostate cancer with the highest quality care in Clinton, NC. By utilizing highly advanced technology, Dr. Robert Reagan, Jr. is able to treat prostate cancer efficiently and effectively. Dr. Reagan takes his time to provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis to help determine the best treatment option for you. Contact our urology clinic in Clinton, NC to schedule an appointment today!

What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

The prostate is an organ that solely exists in males, as it is a vital part of the semen production process. If there is an abnormal growth of cells within the prostate, it is certainly possible that the abnormal cells are malignant.  One in 5 to 6 men will develop prostate cancer in his lifetime.

Due to the location of the prostate and its proximity to the urinary system, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention stated that many signs of prostate cancer will relate to urinary function or the general pelvic region. Such symptoms often include:

• Difficulty urinating
• Weakened urine stream
• Pain within the pelvis or low back
• Blood in urine and/or semen
• Difficulty in getting or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction)
• Loss of control of the bladder or bowels
• Increased frequency of urination

The symptoms above may describe a variety of urology conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is important that you seek treatment if you notice any of these warning signs, as it is always best to catch a condition in its earliest stages, especially if that condition does in fact turn out to be cancer.

Different Types of Prostate Cancer

According to American Cancer Society there are multiple unique forms of prostate cancer that men are at risk of developing. This risk is influenced by a variety of factors such as older age, family history, race, and obesity.

Depending upon where in the prostate the abnormal cells develop, a man may have one of five different types of prostate cancer. Most often, this particular form of cancer is classified as an adenocarcinomas. Other types consist of:

• Transitional cell carcinomas
• Small cell carcinomas
• Sarcomas
• Neuroendocrine tumors

Prostate Cancer Testing

Regardless of what form of prostate cancer has affected an individual, each will require diagnostic imaging and maybe also a biopsy to confirm a definitive diagnosis.

In some cases, it may be advised for the patient to have their tumor removed from the prostate regardless of whether or not it has been identified as cancerous. The primary reason for this being that large growths on or within the prostate can cause a wide range of troublesome symptoms until the tumor is removed.

What is the Best Prostate Cancer Treatment?

Prostate cancer is a complex disease, and the choice of treatment depends on several factors that vary from person to person. These factors include the size and stage of the tumor, the extent of its spread, the aggressiveness of the cancer, the patient’s age, and overall health. Consulting with our urologist is crucial to determine the most suitable treatment approach.

Here are some standard treatments for prostate cancer:

External radiation therapy:

This treatment involves using high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to target and kill cancer cells. It is often used to treat localized prostate cancer or as an adjuvant therapy after surgery.

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT):

Androgens, such as testosterone, stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells. ADT involves reducing the levels of androgens in the body to slow down the growth of tumors. This can be achieved through medications, such as hormone-blocking drugs or surgical removal of the testicles (orchidectomy).

Radical prostatectomy surgery:

This surgical procedure involves the complete removal of the prostate gland and the surrounding tissues. It is typically recommended for localized prostate cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate. In addition to these standard treatments, there are other options available for managing prostate cancer.