About Brachytherapy Prostate Cancer

by Jerry Knight

Brachytherapy prostate cancer is one of several types of treatment for prostate cancer. The purpose is to use radiation in order to kill cancerous cells. One of the benefits of Brachytherapy for prostate cancer is it is generally an outpatient treatment.

Hearing the words 'you have cancer' from a physician or doctor can be a life-changing moment. The accompanying emotions can be staggering. Fear, terror and helplessness are among a few reactions. There are effective treatments for prostate cancer, depending on how far along the cancer has progressed. Many men are treated and cured. The greatest chances for success are when the cancer is found early and treated immediately.

Prostate cancer most often affects men who are older than 50. It's between the ages of 50-64 that most prostate cancers are found. Therefore an annual prostate exam is highly recommended for those over 50. As with many cancers, how we eat can affect our chances of developing cancer. Those who eat a healthy diet of lean proteins, fruits and vegetables may be able to reduce their odds for this type ofcancer. Genetics do play a role and may predispose some individuals to prostate cancer.

There are several treatments available for those with a cancer diagnosis. Consulting more than one specialist may help narrow down the best treatment for your specific case. As well, talking to friends and family may help you decide what is going to be best for you. Patients do have a say in what type of treatment they want to undergo, so be sure to understand your risks and your options.

While there are many possible treatments, we will highlight just a few:

Brachytherapy prostate cancer involves inserting seeds or pellets into the rectum. These seeds are about the size of a piece of rice. They are placed in close proximity to the tumor. The seeds are then loaded with either a high dose of radiation or a low dose of radiation depending on the extent of the cancer. The radiation is then emitted over a period of time. Brachytherapy is often done on an outpatient basis and most people experience minimal or no side effects. Once the radiation treatment is over, the seeds become inert. The seeds may be left in the rectum or may be removed.

Surgery may be recommended alone or with radiation. This is intended to cut out the tumor. If the cancer has started to spread, the specialist may recommend removing a part or all of the prostate. This type of treatment includes hospital stays and may result in incontinence or impotence.

External Beam Therapy or EBT is where beams of high energy x-rays are aimed at the tumor.

Image Guided Radiation is often recommended as the prostate shifts positions during the day depending on how full the bladder is as well as other factors. Image guided radiation helps direct the radiation tot the appropriate place and increases the accuracy of the treatment.

Cryotherapy is another option for some prostate cancers. Cryotherapy uses freezing temperatures to freeze the cancer to death.

Be sure to consult with a doctor or specialist as to the most effective treatment for your specific cancer. Every person and every cancer is different. Use friends and family for support. Getting a prostate exam every year can help detect cancer earlier and help increase odds for survival. - 39969

About the Author:

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