Hormonal Therapy
While many urologists dismiss hormonal therapy for prostate cancer until further research can be done, as of late it has become almost as popular as surgery. Prostate Cancer is believed to feed upon testosterone that is in the bloodstream, thereby spreading out from the prostate to other parts of the body. Drugs such as DES (diethisibestrol) which have a chemical composition similar to estrogen can help to cancel out the male hormones in the body.
While DES and other hormonal therapies like it can bring about relief from the symptoms and even a longer life, there are a number of drawbacks. Swapping male hormones for female ones can destroy a man’s drive, leaving him totally impotent. Other side effects include enlarged breasts, thinning facial hair and even scrotal shrinkage.
Another form of hormonal therapy that can be used during the later stages of prostate cancer are the LH-RH Agonists known as Leuprolide anf Goserline. This is a synthetic pituitary hormone that has been designed to help regulate the release of testosterone into the bloodstream. It is administered through injections or pellet implants and it works by first triggering an initial rush of testosterone before cutting off the supply thereby starving the tumor. Side effects from this type of hormonal therapy include hot flashes, headaches and potential impotence.
Antiandrogens can also help inhibit the action of testosterone upon cancer cells. Marketed under the brand name flutamide, antiandrogens are commonly used in conjunction with other hormonal treatments to help ease the pain that comes with the advanced stages of prostate cancer. Enzyme inhibiting drugs such as Proscar that help block the production of the enzyme that triggers testosterone production are also an available option.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy can be seen as a way to train your body’s natural defense mechanisms to combat diseases such as prostate cancer. This is usually done in conjunction with chemotherapy to help men get through the later stages of prostate cancer. Herbs and other natural cures are sometimes used as well to help the body fight off the cancer.
Radiation Therapy and Heat
Cancer cells are still just cells, and will die off and fail to divide if they are exposed to temperatures that are greater than 105 Degrees Fahrenheit. Scientists have found that applying heat to the whole body or even just a localized spot and then using radiation seems to have more impact than either method alone,
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses chemicals to attack and kill the cancer cells in a patient. However, since it also ends up taking out many healthy cells as well, it is generally considered as a last resort.
These are but a few of the many different treatment options that are now available for prostate cnacer patients. It is important to have a discussion with your doctor in order to determine which treatment option is the best one for you.
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