Here are the points of view of 3 patients with prostate cancer, to continue to demystify this still taboo disease.
While being diagnosed with prostate cancer is a massive blow for men, the choice of treatment can quickly give these patients headaches, especially when there are multiple treatment options on the table. Then there is the anxiety, stress and frustration generated by the side effects of the treatment, as well as the embarrassment of sharing your reality with another person.
That said, let’s see what these men had to say:
- Get screened for prostate cancer
If you’re over 50, discuss the pros and cons of screening with your family doctor(or the doctor at the walk-in clinic if you don’t have a family doctor). The most common screening tests are known as PSA tests, a blood test paired with a digital rectal exam. Make an appointment with your doctor and keep a diary of your symptoms if they persist, such as urinary problems.
- If diagnosed, learn as much as possible about your treatment options
Each diagnosis is unique, and in most cases, you have a choice of treatment. Try to get as much basic and useful information as possible. This will help you make an informed decision about your treatment plan. Write down your questions and concerns. Bring them with you when you meet with your doctor. Being ready for your appointments is the best advice we can give you.
- Keep the lines of communication open
Communicate honestly with loved ones, your doctor and healthcare professionals. You may feel lonely or less supported if you try to look strong and not share your feelings. If you and others show your true emotions, you can support each other. If you’re in a relationship, don’t hide information from your partner, as prostate cancer treatments can impact urinary, erectile, and bowel functions.
- Anticipate side effects by asking how to manage them
Educate yourself carefully about the side effects of treatment such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction and the best strategies to manage them. No matter which treatment you choose, you will need to get involved and work with your urologist, radiation oncologist, nutritionist or physiotherapist to recover your continence, your erections and manage your urinary or bowel problems.
- Help your body help you and trust yourself
Do you work long hours? Do you eat meals loaded with vegetables and fruits? Do you have a workout routine at least three times a week? Consider reducing stress, exercising regularly, and eating a heart-healthy diet. These factors can make a huge difference in your life. The best time to plan changes to your daily routine is right after your cancer diagnosis and before you start treatment. Prepare now, so you can better handle the sequel.
Take the time to visit each of our pages on this website, as well as our YouTube channel, in order to get familiar with the disease, our expert lectures and webinars, our section on available resources, the support that is offered to you, our events and ways to get involved in advancing the cause.
You have questions or concerns? Don’t hesitate. You can chat with us or contact us at 1-855-899-2873 to discuss with one of our nurses specialized in uro-oncology. They are there to listen, support and answer your questions, as well as those of your family or loved ones. It’s simple and free, like all of our other services.
Webinar to review
Prostate Cancer: Your test preparation, procedures and results
Biopsy, understand your report
Pages of our site that might interest you
Want to know more? Just click on the link below.
Coping with prostate cancer
PROCURE blog articles that might interest you
Every week we publish a blog article. Here are some for you.
States of prostate cancer post-treatment
If I had been given the choice
Why am I not receiving any treatment?
Written by PROCURE. © All rights reserved – 2022
