Prostate size now factored into prostate cancer treatment

Doctors and patients alike may need to consider other previously neglected factors in making decisions regarding prostate cancer treatment. In a recent multi-center study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers found that aside from the patient’s age and the grade of the tumor, factors like prostate size and other previously overlooked side-effects play an important role in determining satisfaction with prostate cancer treatment.

 

According to the study, previously overlooked factors such as the size of the patient’s prostate and urinary symptoms caused by prostate enlargement are important factors that influences treatment outcome after surgery. Findings from the study suggest for example, that men with larger prostates have a higher overall rate of satisfaction, benefiting more from surgery through improved urination. Hence, according to the study’s lead researcher Martin G. Sanda, MD, “assigning a general treatment or non-treatment based on someone’s age and cancer severity alone is no longer valid”.

 

The study, which is the first multi-center effort focused on patient satisfaction with overall cancer care, also found that various forms of prostate cancer treatment produces several side-effects – weak or frequent urination and changes in the patient’s energy levels, mood, and weight, which can affect the patient’s quality of life. Moreover, the study also confirmed the belief that cancer treatment had a direct effect on the patient’s partners.

 

Be the first to hear about the most up-to-date news on Prostate Health and Prostate Cancer by signing-up for our site updates.