Prostate cancer

The cause of prostate cancer is unknown. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, certain factors are linked to being at higher risk of developing the disease. These risk factors include:

• Being an African American male
• Being 55 years old or older
• Having a family history of prostate cancer diagnosed at a young age
• Having a family history of prostate cancer, especially father or brother
• Consuming a high-fat diet

We know that prevention is the best medicine, which is why our oncologists recommend preventive screenings for prostate cancer. Based on the recommendations of the American Urologic Association, we choose to use prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing to do this.

PSA, a type of protein, is made in the prostate gland and is released into the bloodstream. A PSA test measures the levels of PSA in the blood and produces the following test results:

• Positive — With a positive test result, you have raised levels of PSA and is likely to be diagnosed with cancer.
• Negative — With a negative test result, the PSA levels are normal, indicating there is likely no cancer.

Sometimes, the results of this test may require you to have further testing to get an accurate diagnosis. You can talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of a PSA screening to make an informed decision for your prostate health.

Our teams in our urological care program use the following tests and imaging procedures to diagnose prostate cancer:

• PSA blood test
• Transrectal biopsy
• Ultrasound

Fortunately, there are many treatment options for prostate cancer. Depending on your medical history, your treatment plan may include one or more of the following therapies:

• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy
• Radiation therapy
• Traditional prostatectomy
• Transurethral resection of the prostate

Robotic surgery for prostate cancer

We offer minimally invasive robot-assisted surgery, sometimes called robotic surgery, which involves removing the prostate and the seminal vesicles and then reattaching the urethra to the bladder.

Traditionally, a prostatectomy is an invasive procedure that leaves a large scar. With robot-assisted surgery, surgeons have increased the precision and maneuverability of the robotic system. This means surgeons can perform prostate surgery with greater ease, while avoiding nerve damage that can lead to life-altering incontinence or erectile dysfunction. Minimally invasive surgery decreases your average hospital stay from three nights to one.

As part of Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare, our family of hospitals provides comprehensive cancer services with convenient access to cutting-edge therapies for people facing cancer in our communities. From diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, our oncology expertise ensures you have access to locally trusted care with the support of a globally recognized network.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (303) 253-3225.