Prostate cancer is the second most common form of cancer in men in the United States. Fortunately, most cases are found early and are highly treatable. However, advanced forms of prostate cancer can be much more serious. In this article, we will review the types of advanced prostate cancer and discuss the survival rate for each.
Microscopic Metastatic Prostate Cancer
This type of prostate cancer, also known as Stage IV cancer, occurs when prostate cancer cells have spread to the bones, lymph nodes, and other organs in the body. In some cases, metastatic prostate cancer can be cancerous cells from another part of the body that have spread to the prostate. The most common symptom is an increased level of pain in the lower back and hips, or other parts of the body where the cancer has spread. Unfortunately, the prognosis for this type of advanced prostate cancer is often not very favorable. Patients are likely to require chemotherapy or radiation treatments to help control the spread of the cancer. The most common form of treatment, however, is a combination of strategies tailored specifically to the individual.
High-Risk Prostate Cancer
High-risk prostate cancer is typically found in men whose Gleason score (a scoring system that determines the aggressiveness of the cancer) is higher than 7. This form of cancer is more likely to spread beyond the prostate and can often be aggressive. However, treatment can vary based on the stage of the cancer, and with early diagnosis, it can still be highly treatable. Treatment typically includes one or more of the following: surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.
Death Rate of Advanced Prostate Cancer
Unfortunately, the prognosis for many types of advanced prostate cancer can be grim. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for men with metastatic prostate cancer is about 28%. This means that about 28 out of every 100 men diagnosed with this type of cancer will still be alive five years after the initial diagnosis. For high-risk prostate cancer, the five-year survival rate is estimated to be about 45%.
Conclusion
Advanced prostate cancer can be a serious case. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, it can be managed and even cured. It is important to keep in mind that the survival rate for each type of prostate cancer depends greatly on factors such as age, overall health, and the stage at which the cancer is caught. It is recommended to talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about prostate cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment can increase the chances of surviving advanced prostate cancer.