At PromiseCare Medical Group in Hemet, California, patients with prostate cancer receive comprehensive care that empowers them to take control of their treatment. According to PromiseCare Medical Group’s data, nearly 1 in 8 men will face prostate cancer, highlighting the importance of regular screening and cutting-edge diagnostic tests to catch the disease early.
The medical group’s multidisciplinary care team works with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that consider their unique needs and health goals. Treatment options may include active surveillance, hormone therapy, and radiation therapy.
Patients navigating their prostate cancer journey with PromiseCare Medical Group have access to a wealth of resources and support. From initial diagnosis to treatment and beyond, the medical group’s care team is dedicated to providing patients with the information and care they need to emerge stronger.
By working closely with patients and leveraging the latest medical advancements, PromiseCare Medical Group helps prostate cancer patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
Overview
Prostate cancer is a slow-growing disease that may not require treatment for years, yet it affects nearly 1 in 8 men in their lifetime. This disease primarily develops in the prostate gland and is most commonly diagnosed as adenocarcinoma, accounting for nearly 99% of all cases.
A diagnosis of prostate cancer can cause symptoms like frequent urination, weak urine flow, erectile dysfunction, and pain in the lower back, hips, or chest. However, many men with prostate cancer may not experience symptoms at all, which is why regular screening is vital, especially for men over 50 or those with a family history of prostate cancer. Screening typically involves PSA blood tests and digital rectal exams.
If diagnosed, active surveillance may be an option, which involves closely monitoring the cancer without immediate treatment. Treatment options for prostate cancer include hormone therapy and radiation therapy. Staying informed and proactive can help individuals take control of their health.
What Does The Department Do?
At the heart of prostate cancer care is a multidisciplinary team combining the expertise of urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists to provide personalized, cutting-edge treatment.
Patients receive extensive prostate cancer care that starts with advanced diagnostic services, including imaging, biopsies, and genomic testing to determine the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer.
The care team creates a personalized treatment plan, considering the unique cancer stage and health condition. Patients have access to a range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.
Those with low-risk prostate cancer may be eligible for active surveillance programs, which closely monitor the condition and intervene if necessary. Clinical trials are also available, providing opportunities to participate in innovative research aimed at improving treatment outcomes and minimizing side effects.
With a focus on safety and holistic care, the goal is to provide the best possible treatment experience.
How We Help Our Patients
When faced with a prostate cancer diagnosis, it’s essential to receive comprehensive care that caters to individual needs.
Developing a personalized treatment plan that considers specific risk factors and health goals is a crucial step in the process.
This journey is typically accompanied by a multidisciplinary team of experts who provide guidance and support.
Additionally, various support services are often available to enhance overall well-being, addressing the unique challenges that come with fighting prostate cancer.
Diagnosis
Through a combination of cutting-edge screening tests, advanced imaging techniques, and meticulous tissue analysis, detecting prostate cancer in its earliest stages is crucial in the fight against this disease.
To determine if prostate cancer is present, a digital rectal exam and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test are typically performed. If these tests indicate the presence of cancer, transrectal biopsies, guided by imaging techniques if necessary, may be performed to obtain tissue samples and assess the cancer’s aggressiveness.
The Gleason score is used to evaluate the cancer’s histological grade and develop a treatment approach tailored to individual needs. To accurately stage the cancer and determine if it has spread, imaging tests such as MRIs and bone scans are applied.
Additionally, genomic tests may be employed to gain insights into the risk of aggressive cancer and inform personalized treatment planning. A precise prostate cancer diagnosis empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care and take control of their health.
Treatment Request
Receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis marks the beginning of a personalized treatment planning process. A multidisciplinary team of specialists, including urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, works closely with the patient to develop a treatment plan that targets the disease while prioritizing overall well-being.
This team collaborates to determine the best course of treatment based on the specific prostate cancer diagnosis, stage, and overall health of the patient. Various treatment options are explored, including the possibility of participating in clinical trials that investigate innovative therapies and approaches.
In addition to medical treatment, emotional support is also provided through counseling and access to support groups, which helps patients and their families cope with the challenges of prostate cancer treatment.
Patient education is a key component of care, ensuring patients understand their treatment options, potential side effects, and the importance of regular follow-up care for optimal outcomes.
Patient Care & Support
Navigating the complexities of prostate cancer treatment requires a comprehensive approach to care. A team of specialists works closely with patients to provide personalized care plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. These plans address diagnosis, treatment options, and progression risks, ensuring patients receive the support and guidance they need throughout their treatment journey.
Patients receive extensive care that includes counseling and support groups to help them and their families cope with the emotional and psychological challenges associated with cancer treatment. Exploring clinical trials can offer access to cutting-edge therapies not widely available, enhancing treatment options and involvement in advancing prostate cancer research.
Comprehensive palliative care services focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life during treatment. Regular communication with a multidisciplinary team of specialists ensures coordinated care that addresses all aspects of a patient’s health. Patient involvement is prioritized, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their care.
A commitment to providing the highest level of care and support is essential throughout the treatment journey.
When To See A Doctor
If symptoms are disrupting daily life, such as frequent trips to the bathroom or pain during urination, it’s time to schedule an appointment to rule out prostate cancer or other conditions. Early detection is key to effective treatment and a better prognosis.
Signs that a medical appointment is necessary include:
- New onset erectile dysfunction or pelvic pain
- A family history of prostate cancer, which may necessitate a discussion of genetic counseling and testing
- Being over 50 (or over 40 with a family history) and wanting to discuss prostate cancer screening
- Symptoms like frequent urination, weak urine flow, or blood in urine
A healthcare provider will assess risk factors and help determine the best course of action. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve quality of life and survival rate if diagnosed with prostate cancer.
It is essential to prioritize health by scheduling an appointment. A healthcare provider will assess risk factors and determine the best course of action. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve quality of life and survival rates in the event of a prostate cancer diagnosis.
Scheduling an appointment is crucial for maintaining good health.
Assessments
When an appointment is scheduled to rule out prostate cancer or other conditions, the next step will be to undergo assessments. These assessments typically begin with screening tests designed to detect abnormalities in the prostate gland, such as a PSA test and possibly a digital rectal exam.
If the results raise concerns, a biopsy may be recommended to confirm the presence of cancer and determine the Gleason score, which assesses the aggressiveness of the cancer.
Imaging tests, such as MRIs or bone scans, may also be used to evaluate the stage of prostate cancer and whether it has spread beyond the prostate gland. In some cases, genomic tests can help assess the risk of aggressive cancer by comparing the DNA of cancer cells.
If placed on Active Surveillance, regular monitoring through assessments is critical to track any changes in cancer progression. This may involve periodic PSA tests and follow-up biopsies to guarantee the cancer isn’t becoming more aggressive.
Consultations
Navigating the complex landscape of prostate cancer care requires consultations with a healthcare team to determine a diagnosis and treatment plan.
A thorough evaluation of symptoms and medical history is conducted, followed by diagnostic tests, such as DRE and PSA blood tests, to assess the presence and severity of cancer.
Active participation in these consultations provides a deeper understanding of the condition, empowering patients to request a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs.
Evaluation
Evaluating prostate cancer requires a thorough and multidisciplinary approach. A team of specialists, including urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, work together to assess the cancer through in-depth consultations, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care.
The evaluation process is crucial for understanding the cancer and determining the best course of treatment. It involves various diagnostic tests, such as PSA blood tests, digital rectal exams, and imaging studies, to determine the cancer stage and aggressiveness. Genomic testing may also be recommended to assess the risk of aggressive cancer and inform treatment decisions based on the cancer’s genetic profile.
Key aspects of the evaluation process include:
- A detailed health assessment to identify any underlying conditions that may impact treatment.
- Personal preferences and lifestyle are taken into account to tailor treatment plans that align with the patient’s goals.
- The opportunity to discuss and explore various treatment options.
- Seeking a second opinion can provide additional insights and options, ensuring patients make informed decisions about their care.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is the next step in prostate cancer care, following a thorough evaluation. This process typically begins with a series of consultations and screening tests designed to provide a definitive diagnosis and a complete picture of the cancer. A PSA test is administered to identify potential abnormalities.
If the results indicate the presence of cancer, a transrectal biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the aggressiveness of the cancer cells. The biopsy results also provide a Gleason score, which rates the cancer’s aggressiveness on a scale of 2 to 10.
Maintaining open communication with the healthcare team is essential during this process. Imaging tests, such as bone scans and MRIs, are used to assess the stage of prostate cancer and whether it has spread beyond the prostate gland.
These tests help develop a thorough understanding of the cancer, which informs treatment options. Working closely with the healthcare team empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care and tackle their prostate cancer diagnosis with confidence.
Request For A Treatment Plan
Developing a personalized treatment plan through consultations with a multidisciplinary team of specialists is the next essential step after a prostate cancer diagnosis. This requires active participation and informed decision-making. The team, including urologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, will work together to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific needs.
During initial consultations, diagnostic tests, such as imaging and biopsies, will accurately assess the cancer’s aggressiveness and spread. All treatment options will be discussed, including active surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.
It’s essential to address concerns or questions during these consultations, seeking clarity on the potential benefits and side effects of proposed treatments. This will help make informed decisions and feel comfortable with the treatment plan.
Follow-up consultations will be necessary to monitor progress, manage side effects, and adjust the treatment plan as needed. By working closely with the multidisciplinary team, patients will receive the best possible care for their prostate cancer.
Treatments
Managing prostate cancer involves navigating a complex array of treatment options, each with its own set of benefits and trade-offs. Evaluating the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer, as well as overall health and personal preferences, is crucial.
Surgery, or radical prostatectomy, is often an option for localized prostate cancer. Radiation therapy, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy, can be effective for both localized and locally advanced cancer.
For advanced prostate cancer, hormone therapy is a standard treatment that targets testosterone to slow cancer growth. Chemotherapy is typically reserved for metastatic prostate cancer.
Active surveillance is a viable option for low-risk prostate cancer, involving regular monitoring without immediate intervention. Discussing the risks and benefits of each treatment with a healthcare team is essential to determine the best approach for a unique situation.
Understanding the options allows for an informed decision and an active role in managing prostate cancer care.
Procedures
Maneuvering the complex landscape of prostate cancer care requires a thorough understanding of the various procedures that can help diagnose, treat, and manage the disease.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of digital rectal exams, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests, and a prostate biopsy to confirm the presence and aggressiveness of the cancer.
Procedures for prostate cancer care include:
- Radical prostatectomy, which involves the surgical removal of the prostate gland and possibly lymph nodes.
- Radiation therapy, such as external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) or brachytherapy, where radioactive seeds are implanted directly into the prostate.
- Minimally invasive treatments, such as high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) or cryotherapy, use focused energy or extreme cold to destroy cancer cells.
- Hormone therapy, also known as androgen deprivation therapy, aims to reduce testosterone levels and slow the growth of hormone-sensitive cancer cells.
Discussing these procedures with a healthcare provider is essential to determining the best course of treatment for a specific case.
Understanding the options available enables informed decisions and active participation in prostate cancer care.
Patient Resources
As you navigate the complex emotional and logistical landscape of a prostate cancer diagnosis, accessing an extensive network of patient resources can be a lifeline, providing the support and guidance you need to make informed decisions about your care. You’re not alone in this journey. Support groups, educational materials, and counseling services are readily available to help you cope with the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
Thorough guides and resources are available from various organizations specializing in prostate cancer support. These organizations offer personalized care plans, access to clinical trials, and financial assistance programs to help manage treatment costs. Educational workshops and webinars are also available, empowering you with knowledge about your condition, treatment options, and coping strategies.
With patient resources, you can focus on what matters most – your quality of life during and after treatment. You’ll be equipped with the tools and support needed to navigate treatment options and make informed decisions about your care. By leveraging these resources, you can feel safer and more in control throughout your prostate cancer journey.
