These research studies are called Clinical Trials. Many patients want to learn all they can about their disease and their treatment choices so they can take an active part in decisions about their medical care. The patient and the doctor should discuss treatment choices thoroughly because treatment for prostate cancer sometimes affects sexual activity and body functions, such as urination. Men with prostate cancer have many important questions and concerns. The doctor is the best person to answer questions about the extent of the cancer, how it can be treated, how successful the treatment is expected to be, and how much it is likely to cost.
People often find it helpful to make a list of questions before they see the doctor.
Taking notes can make it easier to remember what the doctor says. Treatment Methods Many prostate cancers found as a result of surgery done to relieve problems with urination do not need treatment but only close follow-up with tests and exams. Prostate cancer patients who do require treatment have surgery, radiation therapy or hormone therapy. Sometimes patients receive a combination of these treatments. Although doctors plan treatment very carefully, it is hard to limit the effects of treatment so that only cancer cells are damaged.