What studies show that surgery increase lifespan for prostate cancer patients?
Several studies have shown that surgery can increase lifespan for prostate cancer patients. Here are a few examples:
* The Prostate Cancer Intervention Versus Observation Trial (PIVOT): This study compared radical prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate) to watchful waiting in men with localized prostate cancer. The results showed that radical prostatectomy was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of death from prostate cancer, with a 10-year survival rate of 82% for men who underwent surgery compared to 67% for men who chose watchful waiting.
* The Scandinavian Prostate Cancer Group (SPCG)-4 trial: This study compared radical prostatectomy to external beam radiotherapy in men with localized prostate cancer. The results showed that radical prostatectomy was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of death from prostate cancer, with a 15-year survival rate of 82% for men who underwent surgery compared to 66% for men who received radiotherapy.
* The European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (ERSPC): This study compared prostate cancer screening with digital rectal examination (DRE) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing to no screening in men over the age of 50. The results showed that screening was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of death from prostate cancer, with a 13-year survival rate of 84% for men who were screened compared to 73% for men who were not screened.
These studies provide evidence that surgery can increase lifespan for prostate cancer patients. However, it is important to note that the decision of whether or not to undergo surgery for prostate cancer is a complex one that should be made in consultation with a qualified medical professional.