Understanding Brachytherapy Prostate Cancer

by Jerry Knight

While there are several different treatment options for those with prostate cancer, Brachytherapy prostate cancer is one that has had positive outcomes with little or no side effects and can be administered on an outpatient basis.

Being diagnosed with prostate cancer, or any type of cancer can be overwhelming, terrifying and humbling. Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in American men. Part of this is due to more effective detection systems. Prostate cancer is not a death sentence. In many cases, it can be cured. However, the earlier the diagnosis, the more likely treatment will be successful.

Prostate cancer is most prevalent in men over fifty years of age. In fact, cancer often affects men aged 50-64. Annual prostate exams are recommended for men over 50. Eating a healthy diet of lean proteins, fruits and vegetables may also help reduce the chances of prostatecancer. However, prostate cancer may be more common in those whose immediate families have experienced prostate cancer.

Having a support group of friends, family or other cancer patients may help make the decision making process easier. Because there is more than one type of treatment, it's important that you get the best treatment for your cancer and for you. Seeking a second opinion may help and doing your own research may help you feel more in control.

The following are a few of the more common treatments for this type of cancer:

Brachytherapy prostate cancer is a type of treatment where seeds or pellets are placed in the rectum close to the cancer. They are then loaded with radiation. The radiation seeps out of the seeds over the course of time to continually dose the cancer. Brachytherapy is generally done as an outpatient treatment and has very few side effects. Once the radiation is gone, the seeds might be removed or they might be left in the rectum.

Surgery might be recommended depending on how advanced the tumor is. Along with the tumor or growth, a portion or the entire prostate may be removed. Surgery is often done in conjunction with radiation therapy. Surgery patients will need to spend some time in the hospital to monitor the healing process. There are two major side effects that could be experienced: incontinence and/or impotence.

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

Image guided radiation helps surgeons pinpoint the exact area that needs radiation. The prostate moves position throughout the day as the bladder fills and releases and food is processed.

In some instances, Cryotherapy may be advised. Cryotherapy involves below freezing temperatures to literally freeze and kill the cancercells.

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

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