Summary
In summary, here are our recommendations for someone newly diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Question 136:
Please summarize your recommendations for men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Answer:
The single most important thing to do is perform personal research on prostate cancer before you are treated. We strongly recommend that men employ the decision-making process detailed in this brochure:
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Get a copy of your prostate biopsy pathology report and study it. This is the most important information about your own particular case of prostate cancer.
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Get a second opinion on your prostate biopsy from a pathologist who is an expert in prostate cancer. If you wish, we can have this done for you.
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Understand how prostate cancer works and the definition of cure (PSA 0.2 ng/ml), and focus on cure rates — not on treatment.
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Consult with both radiation oncologists and urologists.
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Ask if they have a computerized database on all patients they have treated for prostate cancer.
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Ask for the 10-year ICR in writing for your particular case of prostate cancer from both urologists and radiation oncologists. Make certain the calculations are performed using PSA cutpoint 0.2 ng/ml.
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Ask for calculations of complication rates from their computerized database, especially urinary incontinence and loss of sexual function.
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With members of your family, compare 10-year ICRs and complication rates from the different doctors you have visited.
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Select the doctor and treatment method that give you the best chance of cure, with the least chance of complications.
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Should you have any questions about this information, call or e-mail any of the doctors at RCOG
