It can be scary to learn that you have prostate cancer. An expert addresses some common concerns.
A diagnosis of prostate cancer can affect you in many ways. Each person has their own experience. Bringing up your concerns with your medical team is an important part of coping.
Here, prostate cancer experts at Vanderbilt Urology address some common concerns.
A diagnosis of prostate cancer can affect you in many ways. It’s normal to be scared, angry or depressed after receiving this diagnosis. The doctors at Vanderbilt Urology, Vanderbilt Medical Oncology, and Vanderbilt Radiation Oncology see people with these reactions often. “I often tell patients that the period of getting worked up for a cancer is very stressful because there is so much unknown, said Dr. Kerry Schaffer, a hematology oncologist. “At your visits with your team, make sure to bring up your specific concerns, so you have more knowledge about your condition and what to expect.”
There are some common feelings and concerns that many people may have after diagnosis. You may have some of these reactions, too. Knowing what to expect can help you navigate this process.
You may not want to talk about it.
It can be uncomfortable talking about your diagnosis. Talking about it with your partner and family can help you and your loved ones learn to cope with a prostate cancer diagnosis. Together you can learn about your cancer, the pros and cons of each treatment, and how cancer and treatment may affect your life. Bringing a support person to your appointments can be helpful.
You may feel a range of emotions.
“You may be amazed at how much talking with others who understand your concerns can lower your stress.”
Some people feel embarrassed, guilty or remorseful after their cancer diagnosis. They may wish it had been diagnosed earlier. Some don’t go back to see their health care provider even after prostate cancer is diagnosed, wanting to avoid treatments or they ignore the diagnosis. However, it is best to be honest with yourself and your health care team about your diagnosis, concerns and priorities.
Form a partnership with your medical providers. Learn as much as you can about the cancer and what your treatment options are. Talk about the side effects of each option and how they could affect you during and after treatment. In prostate cancer there are a variety of strategies for treating and managing this illness, and you can work with your team to develop the right treatment approach for yourself. t is not “one size fits all.”
Some people want a second opinion, to get a better understanding of all the treatment options. Health care providers know that it’s common to get a second opinion to confirm a diagnosis or to talk about treatment options.
“For the majority of patients with a new diagnosis, prostate cancer is a curable disease, and whether your treatment involves surgery, hormone therapy, radiation or all three, your team at Vanderbilt is highly trained and experienced,” said Dr. Dakim Gaines, a radiation oncologist. “We will guide you, every step of the way.”
You may worry that your sexual function is threatened.
The prostate gland is part of sexual function. Therefore, prostate cancer and its treatment can impact your sex life and your ability to have children. It can also cause problems controlling your urine.
Many men with prostate cancer worry about sexual performance. Keep in mind that this cancer affects sexual function and urinary continence differently in different people. The type of treatment you choose can make a difference. It may ease your fears – and at the least will give you important information – if you talk honestly and thoroughly with your health care provider about ways to minimize changes to how your body functions.
You are not alone.
It’s normal to feel scared, helpless or alone when you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
However, it may help to know that you are not alone. This is a very common cancer. Data shows that about 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their life. Most do not die from it, however. The American Cancer Society estimates that currently there are about 3.5 million people living with prostate cancer in the U.S.
Consider going to a support group. Vanderbilt has a prostate cancer support group available to patients (link). There are a variety of other resources for prostate cancer survivors in online groups. Talking with others who understand your concerns can lower your stress.
Expert care, customized to your life
Vanderbilt Prostate Cancer specialists care for people with prostate cancer at all stages. This team provides a precise diagnosis, second opinions and treatment options. Advanced research, technology and techniques, combined with compassion, mean you will have a treatment plan that’s right for you. For an appointment, call 615-322-2880.
