Prostate cancer found in its early stages is highly treatable. The American Cancer Society reports that the survival rate for prostate cancer is 91 percent for 10 years after initial diagnosis and treatment. Prostate cancer may be treated with surgery, hormone therapy, radiation or chemotherapy.
Early Detection
Survival rates relate to the stage at which prostate cancer is found. If detected early, prostate cancer is treatable. Screening for prostate cancer consists of a rectal exam and a simple blood test.
Advanced Stages
Chemotherapy is not the standard treatment for prostate cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Surgery and hormone therapy are used first. Prostate cancer that is found in advanced stages or fails to respond to other treatments can be treated with chemotherapy.
Administration
Administration of chemotherapy in prostate cancer is typically through intravenous infusion. Other administration routes include by mouth or injection.
Common Chemotherapy
The American Cancer Society lists etoposide, vinerolbrine, cisplatin, carboplatin, doxorubicin, carmustine, vinblastine, and paclitaxel as common chemotherapies for prostate cancer. Estramustine has been used for prostate cancer since the 1980s.
Side Effects
Side effects of these medications can include, but are not limited to, nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, fatigue, lowered blood cell counts and loss of appetite. Permanent damage to organs such as the heart or kidneys also could result.
References
- American Cancer Society: Chemotherapy for Prostate Cancer
- "Core Curriculum for Oncology Nursing"; Itano, J. Ph.D, Taoka, K. MSN; 2005
- Cancer: Prostate Cancer Statistics
