Treatment Risks of Prostate Cancer

The prostate is located below a man's bladder, and prostate cancer results when cells there divide uncontrollably. No treatment for prostate cancer is risk free, so patients need to carefully weigh the pros and cons to determine what's best for them, with their doctor's help.

Significance

• According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation (2009), 1 of every 6 men faces the treatment risks of prostate cancer--a new case occurs once every 3 minutes.

Types

• Brachytherapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery for prostate cancer all entail different treatment risks. These risks range in severity from fatigue and nausea to surgical complications and new cancer tumors.

Considerations

• Treatment for prostate cancer often affects mental health and social well-being. Men should discuss these risks with a doctor before beginning treatment.

Reducing Risks

• Considering all available treatment options helps reduce risks. Depending on the cancer, minimally invasive treatments or active surveillance may be preferable.

Expert Insight

• The Prostate Cancer Foundation (2009) recommends meeting with a urologist, a medical oncologist and radiation oncologist. Doing so provides the most comprehensive, clear-sighted overview of prostate cancer treatments and their risks.