The number of men diagnosed with prostate cancer has been on the rise in recent years. While the cause of this spike is unknown, some doctors suspect that it may be due to the increased use of technology in our everyday lives. A recent study published in the journal Cancer found that men who were exposed to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) had a significantly higher risk of developing prostate cancer. EMFs are emitted by all sorts of devices, from cell phones and laptops to microwave ovens and TVs. While more research needs to be done to confirm these findings, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks of EMF exposure. In this blog post, we will explore the link between EMFs and prostate cancer, as well as what you can do to protect yourself from EMF exposure.
Metastasis of Prostate Cancer in Alamogordo
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men and the fourth most common cancer overall.1 While prostate cancer rates have been stable in recent years,2 the number of cases diagnosed with advanced or metastatic disease has been on the rise.3
According to the American Cancer Society, there will be an estimated 26,730 new cases of metastatic prostate cancer diagnosed in 2018.4 This is a significant increase from the estimated 18,890 new cases of metastatic disease in 2010.5
One possible reason for this increase is that more men are being screened for prostate cancer with PSA tests.6 However, it is also possible that there is a true increase in the number of men developing metastatic disease.
Regardless of the reason for the increase, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of metastatic prostate cancer so that you can seek treatment as soon as possible if you are diagnosed. Metastatic disease means that cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland and into other parts of the body.7
The most common symptom of metastatic prostate cancer is bone pain, particularly in the spine, pelvis, or ribs.8 Other symptoms can include fatigue, weight loss, urinary problems, and depression.9 If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor so that they can rule out other potential causes and provide you with appropriate treatment.
Treatment for metastatic prostate cancer typically involves hormone therapy or
The Different Types of Metastatic Prostate Cancer
There are four main types of metastatic prostate cancer:
- Hormone-sensitive (also called androgen-dependent or androgen-responsive) prostate cancer: This type of prostate cancer is sensitive to hormones like testosterone, which can help to control cancer. However, hormone therapy can eventually stop working, and cancer may become resistant (or unresponsive) to hormone therapy.
- Hormone-resistant (also called androgen-independent or androgen-refractory) prostate cancer: This type of prostate cancer is not sensitive to hormones like testosterone, so hormone therapy will not work to control cancer.
- Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC): This is a more advanced form of hormone-resistant prostate cancer. Cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland and is not responding to treatment with hormone therapy or other treatments.
- Neuroendocrine tumor (NET) of the prostate: This rare type of tumor starts in the cells that release hormones into the blood. It is not clear if this type of tumor is related to other types of prostate cancer.
How is Metastatic Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?
For patients with suspected metastatic prostate cancer, a number of tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. These may include blood tests, imaging tests, and biopsies.
In some cases, a bone scan may be ordered to check for the spread of cancer to the bones. A CT scan or MRI may also be used to look for signs of cancer in other parts of the body. In some cases, a PET scan may be ordered as well.
A biopsy is often needed to confirm the diagnosis of metastatic prostate cancer. This involves taking a small sample of tissue from the affected area and examining it under a microscope. In some cases, more than one biopsy may be needed.
Once metastatic prostate cancer has been diagnosed, further tests may be performed to determine the stage of the disease. This information is important in planning treatment.
Treatment Options for Metastatic Prostate Cancer
There are several treatment options available for men with metastatic prostate cancer. The most common treatments are hormone therapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Hormone therapy is the most common treatment for metastatic prostate cancer. It works by lowering the levels of testosterone in the body, which can slow the growth of cancer cells. There are several different types of hormone therapy, and your doctor will work with you to choose the best option for you.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It can be used to treat the whole body or just specific areas where there is cancer. Radiation therapy can be given externally (from a machine outside the body) or internally (through needles placed directly into the tumor).
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be given intravenously (through a vein) or orally (in pill form). Chemotherapy is usually given in cycles, with each cycle lasting for a few weeks followed by a period of rest.
Suspected metastasis of prostate cancer Alamogordo
Clinical Trials for Metastatic Prostate Cancer
The incidence of metastatic prostate cancer is on the rise in Alamogordo, and clinical trials are ongoing to develop new treatments for this advanced stage of the disease. Metastatic prostate cancer is usually resistant to hormone therapy and chemotherapy, and patients often have a very poor prognosis.
There are several ongoing clinical trials testing new treatments for metastatic prostate cancer, including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy. Some of these trials are testing combination therapies that may be more effective than single agents.
In one trial, patients with metastatic prostate cancer are being treated with a new immunotherapy drug called ipilimumab. This drug works by stimulating the immune system to attack cancer cells. Early results from this trial show that ipilimumab can shrink tumors and improve survival in some patients with metastatic prostate cancer.
Another ongoing clinical trial is testing a targeted therapy drug called cabozantinib in men with metastatic prostate cancer that has progressed after treatment with standard hormone therapy. This drug works by targeting specific proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Preliminary results from this trial show that cabozantinib can shrink tumors and improve survival in some men with metastatic prostate cancer.
Radiation therapy is also being tested as a treatment for men with metastatic prostate cancer. In one clinical trial, men with metastatic disease that have spread to the bone are being treated with a new type of radiation called stereot
Support Groups for Metastatic Prostate Cancer
When a man is diagnosed with prostate cancer, his first thoughts are often of his family and how the disease will affect them. While it is important to support your loved ones during this difficult time, it is also essential to seek out support for yourself. Metastatic prostate cancer can be an extremely isolating and draining experience, both emotionally and physically. Support groups provide an invaluable outlet for men to share their feelings, frustrations, and triumphs with others who are walking a similar journey.
There are many different types of support groups available for men with metastatic prostate cancer. Some groups focus specifically on metastatic disease, while others cater to those with any stage of prostate cancer. Some groups meet in person, while others connect members via the internet or telephone. No matter what type of group you are looking for, there is likely one that will fit your needs.
If you are interested in finding a support group near you, your doctor or nurse can usually provide some recommendations. Alternatively, you can search online or look in your local phone book. The American Cancer Society also has a comprehensive list of support groups available across the country (https://www.cancer.org/treatment/support-programs-and-services/patient-navigator-program/find-a-patient-navigator/find-a-patient-navigator.html).
No matter what type of support group you choose, participating can provide many benefits. These include:
Conclusion
The rise in advanced prostate cancer cases in Alamogordo is concerning, and further research is needed to determine the cause. In the meantime, men should be sure to get regular checkups and screenings so that any prostate cancer can be caught early. If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, be sure to work with a team of specialists to create a treatment plan that is right for you.
