Prostate Cancer

Lesson 4: Coping with the After-effects

Recurrence of Cancer

As we grow older the chances for having cancer increases. We are outliving our biological age, causing some cells in our bodies to break down. Environment and diet also play a roll in corrupting the cells within our bodies. The following numbers address the chances of Prostate Cancer recurring. Your ongoing checkups at your cancer agency will assist you in getting an early notice of other cancers.

The risk of Prostate Cancer recurrence depends on your risk category before the procedure. Your doctor will be able to discuss with you your pre-treatment risk category.

Localized Cancer

• Low risk: T1-2a; Gleason < 6; PSA < 10
• Low-Intermediate risk: T1-2a; Gleason 7; PSA < 10 or T2b; Gleason < 6; PSA < 10
• High risk: T1-2b; Gleason 8-10 or PSA >20

Some men, once their treatment and recovery is complete, will never give cancer another thought. Other men may worry constantly that the cancer will come back. None of us can predict when cancer will occur, or recur. You didn’t choose to get cancer in the first place, and you certainly wouldn’t choose to get it again. Talk about your fears with your partner or with someone close to you. Talking about your fears may help to allay some of them. There’s no shame in being afraid of cancer, especially since you’ve been through it once already. Talking to your doctor is also a good idea, if you feel comfortable really talking to him or her.

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