An estimated 184,500 new cases were diagnosed in 1998. Although a slow and indolent process, prostate cancer caused an estimated 39,200 deaths in 1998. Surgery, radiation therapy or brachytherapy can be curative if the diagnosis is made early, when the disease is confined to the prostate gland. The management of the patient with prostate cancer requires a carefully planned treatment approach that depends upon the stage of disease, the age and general medical condition of the patient, consideration of complications and quality of life issues, and purpose of treatment. At the Lombardi Cancer Center, clinical care is provided by Urology, Radiation Oncology and Medical Oncology to address these various aspects of care.
Experts are available in all three areas and are capable of treating every stage of cancer.
The Lombardi Cancer Center is the only comprehensive cancer center in the region that has the capability of treatment with almost every available option except cryosurgery. In many cases, men with early prostate cancer are effectively treated and live long, fulfilling lives. Many men whose prostate cancer is slow growing and found at an early stage may not even need treatment. In addition, treatment may not be advised for older men or men with other serious medical problems because possible side effects and risks of treatment may outweigh the possible benefits. Instead, the doctor may follow the patient closely and treat the patient later for symptoms that may arise.