Prostate Cancer Treatment in Staten Island, NY
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. Though treatment is often successful, these outcomes rely on early detection and response. Therefore, awareness is vital. The urology and oncology departments at Richmond University Medical Center are dedicated to educating male patients about prostate cancer symptoms and treatments, helping them make informed decisions about their care. Learn more about our prostate cancer treatments available in Staten Island, New York.
Prostate Cancer Symptoms
Prostate cancer is a cancer that forms in the prostate, an organ in the male reproductive system. The prostate is where seminal fluid is produced and pushed into the urethra. Cancer here does not always cause symptoms in the early stages. Its close relationship with the urethra, however, may cause urinary complications as the tumor grows. Common symptoms of prostate cancer include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Difficulty starting or controlling urination
- A weak or interrupted urine flow
- Inability to completely empty the bladder
- Pain during urination or ejaculation
- Blood in urine or ejaculate
- Erectile dysfunction, especially newly onset
- Persistent lower back, side, or pelvis pain
- Bone pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
These symptoms are not a sure sign of cancer. Many of them are more likely related to an enlarged prostate or other condition. However, anyone experiencing these symptoms should schedule an examination to get a diagnosis.
Prostate Cancer Risk Factors
Any man can be affected by prostate cancer. Certain individuals, however, are more likely to develop the condition than others. Significant risk factors for prostate cancer include:
- Having a family history of prostate cancer
- Being over 50 years old
- Having an African American or Caribbean racial background
- Having an inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
- Having Lynch Syndrome
When patients understand their risk level, they can make informed decisions regarding regular prostate cancer screening.
How Is Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?
Most cases of prostate cancer are detected through routine screening. Patients should begin routine screening starting at age 50 or earlier if they are at high risk of prostate cancer. The two primary screening methods include:
- Digital rectal exam: The physician inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel for lumps or other unusual structures.
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: The physician tests a blood sample for heightened levels of PSAs, or proteins produced by prostate cancer cells.
If routine screening detects something unusual or if a person is experiencing symptoms of prostate cancer, then further testing is required to confirm a diagnosis.
- Medical imaging: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and ultrasound scans are used to take pictures of internal structures. They are available through our radiology department.
- Nuclear medicine: Bone and positron emissive tomography (PET) scans use contrast fluids to highlight cancer cells and tumors.
- Biopsy: A tissue or fluid sample is taken from the prostate and then viewed under a microscope to look for abnormal cells.
If a cancer diagnosis is confirmed, oncologists will work with patients to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Prostate Cancer Treatment
Some types of prostate cancer are slow-growing. If these are caught early, immediate treatment may not be required. Oncologists will simply monitor the tumor to ensure it does not grow. However, for larger tumors, fast-growing cancers, or tumors that cause cancer, treatment is recommended. The Oncology Department at Richmond University Medical Center offers multiple treatment paths. Our multidisciplinary medical team considers all relevant factors, including the cancer stage, the patient’s age, and their overall health condition, to select the best option. Treatments include:
- Radiation therapy: Oncologists target cancer cells with high-powered beams of radiation, destroying the cells and preventing further growth.
- Brachytherapy: A small radiation source is implanted directly into the tumor, providing a high dosage of radiation while protecting healthy tissue.
- Surgery: Surgeons remove the entire tumor and some of the surrounding tissue to completely eradicate the cancer.
- Chemotherapy: Strong drugs attack cells that divide and grow quickly, killing cancer wherever it exists in the body.
- Hormone therapy: Treatments reduce the levels of hormones that cancer uses to grow, starving the tumor of the resources it needs.
- Targeted therapy: Precision drugs target cells with characteristics found only in cancer cells, killing the cancer while sparing healthy tissue.
- Immunotherapy: Physicians empower the patient’s immune system to fight cancer effectively, preventing future recurrences.
Richmond University Medical Center is committed to remaining up to date with the latest treatment technologies, helping patients obtain the best possible outcomes.
Cancer Counseling and Support
A cancer diagnosis is often overwhelming. Many patients experience depression or anxiety during treatment and recovery. Loved ones are also affected. Richmond University Medical Center helps patients and families navigate this difficult time with our family care and support program. This program provides counseling and emotional support at every stage of treatment, from diagnosis to rehabilitation. It also connects individuals with other resources that can help, such as:
- Family therapists and consultants
- Support groups
- Social workers
- Community services
We work hard to ensure that patients and families receive the support they need.
An Emphasis on Education
Richmond University Medical Center believes that good treatment outcomes begin with patient awareness. To this end, we provide routine screening services to individuals within our Staten Island, NY community. We are also committed to educating our community about the disease through publications and promotions. The right information empowers patients to participate in their own care, leading to better treatment outcomes.
Our Cancer Care Mission
At Richmond University Medical Center, our mission is to treat patients and their loved ones like family. We maintain a compassionate attitude that is visible in every department and staff member. Patients receive care in a comfortable environment while building personal relationships with their treatment teams. In this way, we give back to our Staten Island community.
Find the Right Care for Prostate Cancer on Staten Island, NY
A prompt response is key to successful prostate cancer treatment outcomes. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of prostate cancer, or if you want to be screened, reach out to Richmond University Medical Center. To learn more or schedule your consultation, contact us today.
