Quality Treatment for Men with Prostate Cancer on the Central Coast

One in seven men will develop prostate cancer during his lifetime. Only skin cancer affects more men than this genitourinary cancer.

While no one wants to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis, prostate cancer survival rates are very positive. Our trusted Dignity Health Central California oncologists offer effective, personalized, treatment for all types of cancer. Find a Doctor to care for your prostate cancer on the Central Coast of California with dignity and respect.

 

Understanding What Causes Prostate Cancer at Dignity Health Central Coast

Prostate cancer describes a malignant tumor in a man’s prostate gland. These tumors grow in the cells that make up most of the seminal fluid. 

For both prevention and detection, your doctor will order a prostate screening test to check the levels of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. Other tests can find out if the tumor has spread outside of the prostate.

Dignity Health Central Coast doctors use these tests to detect prostate cancers early. They help find cancer even before any signs or symptoms. More advanced prostate cancer symptoms can include:

  • Painful or burning urination
  • Pain in your back, pelvis, or hips
  • Bloody semen or urine
  • Difficulty having an erection
  • Frequent urination, especially at night
  • Sudden urges to urinate
  • Weak or interrupted urine flow
  • Trouble urinating or unable to urinate

An enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) also can cause similar symptoms, especially in older men. Your doctor will carefully review your test results and stage of prostate cancer to develop a personal treatment plan focused on the healing of your body, mind, and spirit.

 

Treatment Following a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

The causes of prostate cancer are not fully understood, and any man can develop this condition. Certain prostate cancer risk factors do increase your chances. These include older age, family history of prostate cancer, and being African American. 

Once a diagnosis is made, your doctor will consider your symptoms, age, and overall health for recommending the treatment that’s the best for you and your well-being. Prostate treatment options commonly involve:

  • Monitoring without treatment unless the cancer changes or grows
  • Chemotherapy
  • Hormone therapy
  • Radiation
  • Biologic therapy
  • Cryotherapy that freezes prostate tissue
  • Surgery 

Prevention and early diagnosis is always the best plan. Living a healthy lifestyle, exercising, not smoking, and getting recommended screening tests for men can help keep you cancer free and enjoying the best in life. 

Dignity Health’s trusted oncologists offer comprehensive care for prostate cancer on the Central Coast of California.

Prostate Cancer