Prostate Cancer

Key to treament choices is early detection

ãRegular screening and early detection are essential,ä advises radiation oncologist Andrew T. Turrisi, M.D., of the prostate cancer team at Hollings Cancer Center.

ãFrom a small blood sample, we can detect increases in prostate-specific antigens. This is an important test because a high antigen count can be a manâs only symptom.ä Because no screening is 100 percent accurate, physicians recommend both a PSA blood test and physical exam.

The recommended age to begin prostate screening is 40 for those in high-risk categories (African- American men or any man with a family history of cancer) and age 50 for the remaining population.

Although heredity plays a major role in whether a man will develop prostate cancer, men who lead healthy lives can dramatically reduce their chances of getting the disease. This means following a lowfat diet, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, and not smoking.

Choices, Choices, Choices

Hollings Cancer Center treats all stages of prostate cancer with the latest methods available. Patients actively participate in choosing an individualized treatment plan that fits their lifestyle. A team of specialists reviews each case, and along with the patient, chooses the most suitable options. Hollings has all prostate cancer treatments available in one place. These include the following:

Radiation conformal beam therapy is a procedure that applies cancer-killing radiation to tumors with precision accuracy using computerized, three-dimensional imaging. This advanced technology makes it possible to target the prostate with radiation while avoiding healthy organs in the area.

Brachytherapy is the implantation of radioactive, cancer-killing ãseedsä directly into the prostate gland. With this method, high doses of radiation remain within the gland and lower the risk of damage to other areas of the body. Radical prostatectomy is an advanced surgical technique that removes the prostate gland, but attempts to maintain normal sexual function and bladder control.

Cryosurgery is a means of freezing the prostate gland to a solid state, using ultrasound for guidance and placement of liquid nitrogen catheters. This option is still considered investigational.

Hormone therapy uses drugs to decrease the amount of male hormones, which foster growth of prostate cancer. Physicians can use hormone therapy alone or in conjunction with other treatments.

Bilateral orchiectomy is the surgical removal of the testicles. This procedure is reserved for more advanced stages of cancer, and relieves symptoms. For more information about prostate screening and the full array of prostate treatment options available at MUSC, call Health Connection at 792-1414 or 800-424-MUSC.

ãTake charge of your health! Ask a family doctor for a PSA blood test and physical exam.ä

Thatâs the advice of a member of the US TOO support group for prostate cancer patients. US TOO provides informative programs about prostate cancer and lends emotional support to men and their families. At monthly meetings, member hear lectures by cancer experts and learn from other men about their choice of treatment and its side effects. Cancer survivors agree that the more educated a person is about his disease, the more confident he will feel about his choice of treatment. The group meets the first Tuesday of each month at Bethel Methodist Church, downtown on Pitt and Calhoun streets. To learn more about US TOO, call Health Connection at 792-1414 or 800-424-MUSC.

Free Prostate Screenings

In recognition of Prostate Cancer Awareness Week, Sept. 22 to 27, Hollings Cancer Center will offer free prostate screenings for men 50 years of age or older (40 or older if African American). on Friday, Sept. 26 and Saturday, Sept. 27. The screenings will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The screening consists of a physical exam and simple blood test, the prostate specific antigen, or PSA test. This combination is the best way of detecting prostate cancer at early stage. Because spaces are limited, you must register for the screening in advance by calling 792-1414.

Editor's note: The article is reprinted from Checkup newsletter, produced by MUSC Creative Services.