Advanced Prostate Cancer Advanced prostate cancer is typically treated with systemic therapies. Systemic therapies refer to any type of treatment that targets or travels through the entire body. These include: Hormone Therapy Also called ADT, lowers the testosterone level in a man’s body. Because prostate cancer cells use testosterone as fuel, ADT starves the tumor cells. Hormone therapies cannot kill prostate cancer, but can extend survival. Hormone therapy may be used in combination with other treatments. Immunotherapy Stimulates the immune system to kill cancer cells in men with advanced prostate cancer. Targeted Therapy Identifies, or “targets,”a particular genetic mutation in the tumor, with the goal of interfering with the specific molecules that drive the growth of the tumor. A targeted therapy approach is a form of personalized cancer treatment and is often associated with fewer side effects than other treatments. Radiopharmaceuticals Radioactive drugs given through a vein to men with metastatic prostate cancer. Chemotherapy Uses anti-cancer drugs to kill cancer cells. These drugs are usually given into a vein (intravenously) with a needle. This treatment is routinely given at a clinic or doctor’s office. Some chemotherapy drugs may be given as a pill. One local therapy that may be used to treat advanced prostate cancer is radiation: Radiation Uses high-energy rays to relieve pain from bone metastases and may also be used in combination with hormone therapy. It is important to work with your doctors to make informed decisions about your care. Learn about all treatment options, including clinical trials, and understand the possible side effects of each treatment.
VETERANS PROSTATE CANCER GUIDE
16
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker