What Is Phase II Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is typified by rampant multiplication of cells lining the prostate. It is a common cancer form affecting men, with approximately 190,000 cases diagnosed annually in the US. Prostate cancer is divided into four phases: phase I (cancer is limited to the prostate gland), phase II (cancer is limited to the prostate, but affects the lymph nodes), phase III (cancer affects the tissues close to the prostate) and phase IV (cancer has spread to other body parts).

Diagnosis of Phase II Prostate Cancer

• The diagnostic methods used are similar for all stages of prostate cancer and include ultrasound, prostate biopsy, a physical examination or a digital rectal examination (DRE) wherein a doctor inserts a gloved finger to check for abnormalities.

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain during urination, interrupted urination, discharge of blood through the urine and extreme pain in the back and hips are common symptoms of phase II prostate cancer.

Treatment Options

• There is no complete cure for phase II prostate cancer, but various treatments are employed to control the proliferation of the malignant cells. Surgical removal of the cancer cells is one of the most common treatments. After surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy might be recommended.

Time Frame

• Time frame for treatments varies, depending on the metastasis of the malignant cells. Most patients are exposed to radiotherapy sessions two to three times per week for about a month, while chemotherapy sessions occur once every three weeks for three to four months.

Prevention

• The Mayo Clinic reports that quitting smoking and drinking and avoiding exposure to the sun and to environmental pollutants are some of the steps you can take to prevent cancer.