Prostate cancer is characterized by unrestrained multiplication of cells lining the prostate glands. According to the National Cancer Institute, nearly 217,000 patients are diagnosed with prostate cancer annually in the United States. Approximately 32,000 deaths each year are attributed to prostate cancer.
As with most types of cancer, no complete cure is available for prostate cancer.
How it Works
Atoms carrying a positive charge are called protons, and doctors use a beam of these particles to irradiate tumors, including prostate tumors. The beam is delivered by a cyclotron---or synchrotron. Magnets guide the protons toward the prostate tumor. Proton particles destroy prostate cancer cells by damaging the DNA, interrupting their growth and spread to other body parts. The proton particles release the majority of their energy on the prostate'a cancerous tumors, minimally affecting the surrounding cells and tissues.
Benefits
The most important feature of proton therapy is its accuracy. In proton therapy doctors have a more precise treatment method for prostate cancer. Because of its precision, doctors may use a higher dose of radiation to treat prostate cancer patients without damaging the nearby rectum and bladder. Proton therapy is noninvasive, requires no incision and is painless.
Time Frame
Proton therapy sessions are generally administered on an outpatient basis, with each session lasting between 10 and 15 minutes. The number of sessions varies from patient to patient depending on the spread and stage of the cancer, however according to radiologyinfo.org, the average duration of the treatment is five to seven weeks.
Side Effects
Patients undergoing proton therapy for prostate cancer experience minimal side effects as compared with those undergoing other forms of treatment. Among general side effects that you might experience are nausea, fatigue and skin irritations.
Warnings
Proton therapy is fast becoming a widely preferred form of treatment for prostate cancer. However similar to other radiation treatment forms, during the course of the treatment you may be warned by your doctor to reduce exposure to the sun and environmental pollutants.
Tags: prostate cancer, prostate cancer, Proton therapy
