Central PA Medicine Summer 2021 - 24

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Navigating
Prostate
Cancer
Today
By R. SCOTT OWENS, MD
F
acing a prostate cancer diagnosis today is not as intimidating as other cancers; however,
it is filled with more questions than answers. This uncertainty often leads to an array
of emotions including fear, because prostate cancer treatment can significantly impact
the quality of life for the patient and his family.
Men are hearing the word " options " surrounding this disease and become paralyzed by
indecision. As a result, the dilemma is treatment or no treatment. The treatment paths
are multifactorial, which leads to uncertainty in patients. The key is establishing a shared
relationship with the patient and encouraging them to self-educate, while taking a pause to
make an informed decision.
Cancer is life-changing, but there are game-changers for men facing this disease. In diagnosing,
treating, and managing prostate cancer, many decisions will be made along the way
giving men hope and alternatives specific to their care. In the early 90's, our thought process
with prostate cancer was one size fits all and all cancers are bad and need treatment. This
no longer holds true. Prostate cancer treatment has evolved as has our understanding of its
clinical behavior and with that comes the challenges to help navigate the choices available.
My approach is to understand the biology and behavior of the cancer and apply that to
the biology and behavior of the individual to formulate a treatment plan. Making the right
decision for the patient to treat the cancer adequately and comprehensively is part of that
shared decision-making process.
The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is the standard blood test used by urologists to " open
the door " to diagnosis. Over the years, its effectiveness has been questioned; however, it remains
a critical tool in establishing the diagnosis and in the post-operative care and management of
24 Summer 2021 Central PA Medicine

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Central PA Medicine Summer 2021

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