Prostate Cancer Care

Prostate Cancer Care with Dr. Calleja

Dr. Calleja is a renowned specialist in prostate cancer care, dedicated to guiding patients through every stage of their journey, from diagnosis to recovery.

With extensive experience in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, including advanced robotic surgery, Dr Calleja supports patients from initial investigations through to treatment and follow-up. Recommendations are based on the type and stage of cancer, individual risk factors, general health and each patient's own priorities.

Patients are actively involved in decisions about their care, with time to understand the available options, their potential benefits and the possible side effects.

What Is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate begin to grow in an uncontrolled way.

The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and around the urethra. It forms part of the male reproductive system and produces fluid that forms part of semen.

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in the UK. Around 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with it during their lifetime.

Who Is at Risk of Prostate Cancer?

The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age, particularly after the age of 50.

Risk is also higher in Black men and men with a family history of prostate cancer. Certain inherited genetic changes and a family history of some other cancers can also affect risk.

If you are concerned about your individual risk, speak to your GP or urologist about whether further assessment is appropriate.

To arrange a consultation, use our simple online booking system.

What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms.

When urinary symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Difficulty starting to urinate
• A weak or interrupted urine flow
• Feeling that the bladder has not emptied fully
• Needing to urinate more frequently
• Waking during the night to urinate
• A sudden urge to urinate

PSA Testing and Prostate Cancer

A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures the level of PSA in the blood. A raised PSA does not necessarily mean that you have prostate cancer.

PSA levels can be affected by several factors, including:

• An enlarged prostate
• Prostate inflammation or infection
• Recent ejaculation
• Some forms of exercise
• Recent procedures involving the prostate or urinary tract
• Prostate cancer

How Is Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?

If prostate cancer is suspected, assessment may involve a combination of your medical history, PSA results, examination and imaging.

A multiparametric MRI scan is commonly used as a first-line investigation when clinically localised prostate cancer is suspected. Depending on the MRI findings and your individual risk, a prostate biopsy may then be recommended.

A biopsy takes small samples of prostate tissue that can be examined for cancer cells. The results help your specialist understand the type and grade of any cancer found and guide decisions about further investigation or treatment.

Understanding Your Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

If prostate cancer is diagnosed, several factors are considered to establish how significant the cancer is and which treatments may be appropriate.

In the UK, the Cambridge Prognostic Group (CPG) system divides localised and locally advanced prostate cancer into five groups, from CPG 1 to CPG 5.

Your CPG is based on information including:

• PSA level
• Grade Group or Gleason score
• The stage of the cancer

The CPG helps your specialist assess risk and discuss appropriate management with you.

What further tests are there apart from PSA?

If your PSA is high or the prostate examination is abnormal, doctors can order an MRI scan of your prostate. You will be asked to undergo a prostate biopsy if this is suspicious.

Prostate Cancer Treatment Options

Not every prostate cancer needs immediate treatment. The most appropriate approach depends on the cancer, your general health and your preferences.

Treatment and management options can include:

Active Surveillance

Active surveillance closely monitors prostate cancer using tests such as PSA testing, MRI and, when appropriate, further biopsy. Treatment can be considered if there are signs that the cancer is progressing.

Radical Prostatectomy

A radical prostatectomy removes the prostate gland and is one treatment option for suitable patients with prostate cancer that has not spread to distant parts of the body.

Dr Calleja has expertise in robot-assisted radical prostatectomy, a minimally invasive approach to prostate cancer surgery.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy uses radiation to destroy cancer cells. Depending on the individual diagnosis, it may be used as an alternative to surgery and can sometimes be combined with hormone therapy.

Treatment for Advanced Prostate Cancer

When prostate cancer has spread beyond the prostate, treatment is tailored to the individual. Options can include hormone therapy, chemotherapy and newer drug treatments.

Your specialist will explain which options are suitable and the potential benefits and side effects of each.

Recovery and Follow-Up

Recovery depends on the treatment received and the individual patient.

Following radical treatment, PSA testing is an important part of monitoring. Patients may also need support with possible treatment effects such as urinary problems, sexual function and the wider physical and emotional impact of prostate cancer.

Dr Calleja and the wider clinical team provide ongoing guidance so that patients know what to expect before treatment and throughout their recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can prostate cancer be cured?

Many prostate cancers can be successfully treated, particularly when they are diagnosed while still localised. Outlook varies considerably depending on the type, grade and stage of the cancer, so your specialist can provide more meaningful information based on your individual diagnosis.

Does a high PSA mean I have prostate cancer?

No. PSA can be raised for several reasons and a high result does not confirm prostate cancer. Your PSA needs to be interpreted alongside other information and further investigation may be recommended.

Can you have prostate cancer without symptoms?

Yes. Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms, which is why understanding your individual risk and discussing PSA testing when appropriate can be important.

Do all prostate cancers need treatment?

No. Some lower-risk localised prostate cancers can be safely monitored through active surveillance rather than treated immediately. Other cancers are more likely to require treatment. The decision depends on the characteristics of the cancer and individual circumstances.

What happens if an MRI shows possible prostate cancer?

If an MRI identifies an area that could represent clinically significant prostate cancer, your specialist may recommend a prostate biopsy. The decision will also take into account your PSA, examination findings, risk factors and general health.

Book a Prostate Cancer Consultation

If you have a raised PSA, are being investigated for prostate cancer or have already received a diagnosis, Dr Calleja can provide specialist assessment and advice about your next steps.

Dr Calleja treats NHS and private patients and works with patients across Eastbourne, Hastings, Sussex, Kent and London.

To discuss your diagnosis or concerns and understand your treatment options, get in touch with Dr Calleja today.