Proton Therapy Helps Protect Sexual Health after Prostate Cancer Treatment
Some have a high risk of side effects, including the possibility of affecting a patient’s bladder control and sexual function after treatment is over. Proton therapy is an alternative cancer treatment known for having fewer of these undesirable side effects.
Screening and Early Treatment
Men may be reluctant to get tested for prostate cancer, but early detection can save lives. The 5-year survival rate drops to 31 percent once cancer spreads outside of the prostate region. Guys who are concerned that going for prostate cancer screening is a sign of weakness should know that the earlier they are treated, the more likely they are to have a normal sex life after treatment.
Traditional Treatment Options
Traditional radiation therapy with x-rays aims to destroy cancerous cells in the prostate and, if the cancer has spread, in surrounding tissues. This therapy involves high-dose radiation that can damage non-cancerous tissues near to the prostate, including the man’s reproductive organs. Fatigue and impotence are likely side effects of traditional radiation therapy.
Surgical removal of the prostate, or prostatectomy, can be effective but carries the risk of nerve damage in local areas. Hormone replacement therapy is more common for cancer that has spread. The purpose is to inhibit testosterone from causing the cancer to grow quickly, but it can lead to impotence, enlarged breasts and hot flashes. Men who get treated for prostate cancer in later stages are more likely to lose their sexual desire after treatment.
Proton Therapy
Prostate cancer is among the most treatable cancers as long as it is treated relatively early. Older men and men with risk factors should get regular screening so that they can begin treatment as soon as possible if necessary. Traditional therapies are often effective, but they can lead to impotence or sexual dysfunction. Proton therapy may be worth considering for reducing side effects.
Related Prostate Cancer Treatment Experience Posts
- I have had radical prostectomy surgery for surviving prostate cancer
The news had sent me spiraling into a crisis of faith. Emotionally it really hit hard and has been devastating for survival. I have been having PSA blood testing every month post op surgery on a regular basis per my physician recovery recommendation. - I Have Prostate Gland Cancer and Radiation Treatments Causes Impotence
My PSA level indicated I had prostate Cancer and I’ve had radiation treatments. Since then I have impotence and been unable to keep a erection. - Guy’s Prostate Cancer Survivors Personal Experiences Stories
PSA level screening, Treatments and surviving prostate cancer.
