Prostate Cancer Treatment Options

Prostate treatment programs vary depending upon age, the stage and grade of the cancer. The grade is assigned to the tumor based on the microscopic appearance of the cancer cells from the biopsies that were performed. The grade indicates the aggressiveness of the cancer, and is given as a score (the Gleason score) that ranges from a non-aggressive level of 2 to a very aggressive score of 10.

Statistics from the American Cancer Society show that 90% of prostate cancers are discovered in the localized stage, resulting in survival approaching 100%. The even better news is that over the past 25 years the 5 year survival rate for all stages of prostate cancer combined have increased from 69% to a staggering 99%. Some of the dramatic improvements in survival, especially at the 5 year stage may be attributable to earlier diagnosis as well as improvements in treatment.

Alta Bates Summit Medical Center has produced A Video for Men Recently Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. The purpose of this video is to guide you through the stages of the disease, describe factors that affect prognosis, and discuss various treatments that may be appropriate for you.

Select from a variety of video topics to your right. Please note: we don’t endorse or recommend one course of treatment over another, but rather provide this information to help you understand your options before you consult with your doctors about your treatment plan.

Viewing this video online works best over a high speed Internet connection. If you’d prefer to receive a DVD copy, please call our office at (510) 869-8833.

You and your oncologist will work closely together to identify the best treatments for your specific health considerations. These may include a surgical intervention, as well as radiation and/or chemotherapy. At Alta Bates Summit, our outstanding physicians provide a wide variety of cancer treatments and procedures to ensure you receive the best possible care. Click on the navigation links to the left to learn more about the cancer treatments we offer.

Reviewed 02/2010