What Is Prostate Cancer and Why Is It Important?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the prostate gland, which is a small gland in males responsible for making some of the fluid in semen. It’s important because it’s one of the most common cancers in men, especially as they get older.
How Is Prostate Cancer Treated?
Radical Prostatectomy: The Surgery That Removes the Prostate
One of the main treatments for prostate cancer is a surgery called Radical Prostatectomy. This surgery involves removing the prostate gland and sometimes nearby tissues to ensure that all cancer cells are gone.
What Happens After Prostate Cancer Surgery?
Monitoring PSA Levels to Detect Cancer Recurrence
After surgery, doctors use a blood test to monitor levels of a protein called Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA). A rise in PSA levels after surgery could mean that the cancer is coming back, which is known as Biochemical Recurrence (BCR).
How Does Prostate Size Affect Prostate Cancer Recurrence?
Larger Prostate Size and Higher Risk of Recurrence
The size of the prostate before surgery is a key factor in predicting the chances of cancer coming back. Studies show that:
- Larger Prostate Size: If the prostate volume is greater than 40 cubic centimetres (cm³), the risk of BCR is higher. Specifically, men with prostates larger than 40 cm³ have an 80% chance of being cancer-free three years after surgery.
- Smaller Prostate Size: For those with a prostate size of 40 cm³ or less, the chance of being cancer-free three years after surgery is about 85%.
Why Prostate Volume Matters in Post-Surgery Care
Doctors may recommend more frequent follow-ups for patients with a larger prostate to catch any signs of cancer recurrence early. The size of the prostate could influence how carefully a patient is monitored after surgery.
Does Age or Body Size Affect the Chances of Cancer Coming Back?
Age and BMI: Do They Matter?
- Age: Whether a man is 60 or 70 years old doesn’t significantly affect the likelihood of cancer returning after surgery.
- Body Mass Index (BMI): BMI, a measure of body fat, also doesn’t have a major impact on the risk of cancer recurrence.
What Should You Do After Prostate Cancer Surgery?
The Importance of Regular PSA Testing and Follow-Ups
No matter the size of your prostate, regular PSA tests are crucial after surgery to ensure any signs of cancer recurrence are detected early. This helps in managing your health and making informed decisions with your doctor.
Understanding Prostate Size and Cancer Risk
Regular monitoring, especially for those with a larger prostate, can make a significant difference in long-term health outcomes.
