For prostate screenings call: (718)-370-1400
For prostate cancer treatment call: (718)-818-3000
Prostate Cancer
Because it is one of the most common forms of cancer among men, knowing the symptoms and where to receive management for prostate cancer is extremely important. From providing a diagnosis to treating the condition, and your forever follow-up, Richmond University Medical Center will be with you through every step of the process. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff is equipped with extensive experience, the latest technologies, trusted treatments and the resources to deliver the care you deserve.
Know the Symptoms and Risk Factors
Many patients have no symptoms. Family history of Prostate Cancer is a risk factor not to be ignored. The prostate gland is located near the bladder and urethra, which means many of the symptoms of prostate cancer are involved with the urinary system. Common symptoms include:
- Frequent urge to urinate, especially at night
- Difficulty in producing a steady stream of urine
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood in urine or semen
- Development of erectile dysfunction
This condition frequently impacts men over the age of 50, so it is recommended that you visit a doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms and/or wish to be screened for prostate cancer.
Diagnostic Tests
If your primary care physician identifies signs of prostate cancer, he or she will refer you to our urology services for diagnosis, as well as our oncology services for management. A variety of tests will help determine the severity of the condition and which treatments are most appropriate. Some of the diagnostic methods used include:
- Laboratory services: Blood and tissue samples are collected and analyzed to identify unusual results that signal the presence of cancer.
- MRI: An MRI uses magnetic fields to give a view of the patient’s body and help doctor’s locate and assess the size of a tumor.
- CT scan: A CT scan creates a three-dimensional view of the body so doctors can examine a tumor from different perspectives.
- Nuclear Medicine: Bone scan and PET scan are included under nuclear medicine tests, a substance will be injected that is absorbed to reveal where cancer is and how much is present.
Prostate Cancer Treatment
Radiation therapy is one of the methods our oncologists use to treat prostate cancer. A highly effective way to destroy cancer cells, radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation channeled through a linear accelerator to target tumor DNA. The treatment plan is customized to treat the cancer while sparing normal surrounding tissues.
Brachytherapy is another form of therapy that delivers internal radiation to eradicate cancer cells. This method can be used on a tumor inside the body to eradicate the cancer from inside out.
Other treatment methods, such as chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and surgery, may also be utilized. The oncology team will work with you to create a plan that takes into consideration your specific diagnosis, overall health and other factors to determine the most appropriate methods for treatment.
Counseling and Support
Cancer treatment affects more than your body. In fact, you may experience depression, anxiety and stress during treatment and recovery, as well as a host of emotions that can be challenging to manage. If you or a loved one would like to speak with a therapist or social worker, please request a referral to our support program. You may also contact the Family Care & Support Coordinator to schedule an appointment directly by calling (718)-818-5302. A Spanish-speaking consultant is available on request to accommodate your needs.
Find the Right Care
If you want to be screened for prostate cancer contact our urologist at (718)-370-1400 for an appointment. If your doctor suspects you have prostate cancer, it’s important to seek help right away. To learn more about prostate cancer management, contact the Center for Cancer Care at Richmond University Medical Center today by calling (718)-818-3000. We’re located at 1000 South Avenue in Staten Island to provide easy access to the latest advancements and the best in cancer care.
