Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancers

Cancers Treated: Prostate Tumors

Prostate Cancer

The prostate cancer rate has steadily climbed by 3 percent since 2014, with advanced stage prostate cancers rising 5 percent annually. Next to skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men.

One in 41 will die of prostate cancer, but most men who are diagnosed do not die from it. Prostate cancer typically grows slowly, so in many cases, doctors may recommend observation, often called watchful waiting, and active surveillance for patients. Radiation is among the treatment options commonly used for prostate cancer, depending on its stage and other factors.

Why proton therapy?

Proton therapy targets prostate cancer with protons, rather than traditional X-ray beams. While X-rays release radiation both before and after they hit the targeted tumor, protons stop at the tumor. For this reason, protons have the potential to deliver higher doses of radiation, with less risk of damage to healthy surrounding tissue, and fewer side effects.

Radiation is a potential prostate cancer treatment:

  • If the cancer is still in the prostate gland and is low grade.
  • For cancers that have grown outside the prostate gland and to nearby tissues.
  • If cancer is not completely removed during surgery or recurs in the area of the prostate after surgery.
  • To keep advanced cancers under control or help relieve symptoms.

Prostate cancer by the numbers

The American Cancer society estimates there will be more than 288,000 new prostate cancer cases this year, and nearly 35,000 deaths.

Request a Referral or Information Today Schedule An Appointment - (855) 697-7686

Learn More About Treatment of Prostate Cancers

Information from the National Cancer Institute

Includes information about prostate cancer, causes, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment.

Learn More: NCI