Despite the prevalence of prostate cancer -- it's the most common cancer diagnosis among men -- many patients are unaware of vital aspects of the disease that affect its diagnosis and treatment.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Week presents an opportunity to address this knowledge gap. Dr. Christopher Saigal, vice chair of urology at UCLA Health, calls attention to three points that he's noticed many patients don't know -- but should -- about prostate cancer.
1. The PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test doesn’t confirm whether or not you have cancer.
Saigal: "PSA, itself, is a harmless protein made by the prostate gland. But in men with prostate cancer, it is overproduced, so you have more of it in your blood. That’s why the PSA test can be a helpful component in screening. However, PSA is made in higher quantities in men who have larger prostate glands, or who have inflammation of the gland, so not all PSA elevations mean a man has prostate cancer."
2. Treatments can have a variety of side effects beyond sexual function.
Saigal: "When it comes to the side effects of treating prostate cancer, the spotlight falls on sexual function. But other side effects should factor into treatment decisions, too. Some men who receive a prostatectomy to treat prostate cancer may experience urinary incontinence (leakage). Men having radiation therapy can have issues with bowel health. Some men who choose active surveillance to monitor their prostate cancer develop anxiety from the process, even though active surveillance is a very useful option for many men. That's why it's important to discuss your personal values and your goals with your doctor and come up with a plan that works for you."
3. Ater diagnosis, you generally have time to make a decision.
Saigal: "In most cases, a man has time to figure out which treatment is best in his case. Waiting a few months to decide what treatment is best for you in general does not affect treatment cure rates. When it comes to prostate cancer, research has shown that a significant proportion of patients come to regret their treatment decision. Take the time you need to pick the treatment that’s right for you."
To request an interview with Dr. Saigal, please email UCLA Health Sciences media representative Ryan Hatoum at [email protected].
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