The basics of prostate cancer treatment

Stage and grade

Treatment for prostate cancer depends on the stage and grade of the disease, which can be measured and reported in different ways. You can learn more in-depth information about how doctors stage and grade prostate cancers here. Make sure that you receive a copy of your prostate cancer test results, which should include information about the stage and grade of your cancer. For people with metastatic prostate cancer, additional testing beyond staging is usually done. See below for more information on these additional prostate cancer tests. 

Types of treatment

Some early-stage prostate cancers may be small and slow-growing and require little or no treatment. Other cancers may be larger or more aggressive and require significant treatment. Standard treatment may include a combination of surgery, radiation, and hormonal therapies. People with advanced or recurrent cancers may also be treated with chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy. You can learn about these therapies here. Clinical trials may be available for any stage of prostate cancer.

Additional tests

Tumor biomarker testing and genetic testing can provide additional clues about which treatments may work best for your cancer. If you test positive for an inherited mutation linked to prostate cancer, your results may also help you and your relatives learn about risks for future cancers and ways to manage these risks.   

Ask your doctor to explain your diagnosis, test results and treatment options in terms that you can understand. This will allow you to work with your doctor to choose the best treatment for you.