Thursday, February 19, 2009

More Treatments for Prostate Cancer

Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves use of freezing temperatures to destroy the cancer cells. Cryotherapy has been used to treat prostate cancer in the past. It involves the use of a probe placed through the rectum and freezes the prostate.

The freezing action destroys the cancer cells. However, previous results were poor and associated with a number of complications including damage to surrounding structures such as the bladder and rectum. Bladder incontinence was a major complication of Cryotherapy.

Observation: The PSA blood test can help detect prostate cancer at a very early stage. This allows many men to choose observation as a treatment option. With observation, one has to have regular follow-ups, frequent blood tests, repeat rectal exams and possibly biopsies to monitor the progression of the early cancer.

Prevention: Unfortunately prostate cancer can’t be prevented but one can take measures to decrease the risks or slow its progression. The most important steps one can take to maintain good health is to well, be physically active and get regular check up from the doctor.

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