What is Metastatic Prostate Cancer?

What is Metastatic Prostate Cancer?

Metastatic prostate cancer is an advanced stage of prostate cancer that occurs when cancer cells spread from the prostate gland to other parts of the body. This stage represents a shift from a localized cancer that is often curable to a more complex condition requiring advanced treatment strategies. Understanding metastatic prostate cancer is crucial for both patients and their caregivers, as it directly impacts treatment decisions and quality of life.

At Privado Health, we specialize in cutting-edge theranostics treatments, offering new hope for patients with metastatic prostate cancer. Below, we explore what metastatic prostate cancer is, how it progresses, and the most effective treatment options available today.

What is Metastatic Prostate Cancer?

Metastatic prostate cancer refers to cancer that has spread beyond the prostate gland to other parts of the body. Common areas where prostate cancer spreads include the bones, lymph nodes, liver, and lungs. When prostate cancer has spread to these areas it is referred to as Stage 4 cancer. Even if cancer cells spread to other organs, it is still considered prostate cancer, not a new cancer type. For example, prostate cancer in the bone is termed “prostate cancer with bone metastases.”

This type of cancer typically progresses in one of two ways:

• Local Invasion: Cancer cells extend beyond the prostate gland into nearby tissues.
• Distant Metastasis: Cancer spreads through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to distant organs.

The American Cancer Society’s estimates for prostate cancer in the United States for 2024 are: About 299,010 new cases of prostate cancer About 35,250 deaths from prostate cancer The number of prostate cancers diagnosed each year declined sharply from 2007 to 2014, coinciding with fewer men being screened because of changes in screening recommendations. Since 2014, however, the incidence rate has increased by 3% per year overall and by about 5% per year for advanced-stage prostate cancer.

Symptoms of Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Metastatic prostate cancer presents with symptoms that vary based on where the cancer has spread. Some common signs include:

• Bone Pain: This is often the first sign, especially in the hips, spine, and legs.
• Fatigue: Patients may feel unusually tired or weak.
• Urinary Problems: Increased frequency or difficulty urinating may persist.
• Swelling in the Legs or Feet: Caused by lymph node blockage.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: This is often accompanied by a loss of appetite.
• Shortness of Breath: If cancer spreads to the lungs.

While some men may experience significant symptoms, others may have few or mild indicators. It’s essential to undergo regular Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood tests and screenings to catch prostate cancer early, especially if you’re in a high-risk group.

Causes and Risk Factors

Metastatic prostate cancer is often the result of prostate cancer that was either untreated or did not respond to treatment. Key risk factors include:

1. Age: Men over the age of 65 are at greater risk.
2. Family History: If a father or brother had prostate cancer, the risk increases.
3. Race: African-American men have a higher incidence and more aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
4. Genetics: Specific gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can elevate the risk.

For men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer, regular follow-up is critical to detect potential metastasis early.

How is Metastatic Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosing metastatic prostate cancer involves a combination of tests to assess the extent of cancer spread. These include:

• PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test: Measures the level of PSA in the blood. Elevated PSA levels often indicate cancer activity.
• Bone Scans: To detect cancer that has spread to the bones.
• CT Scans or MRIs: Provide detailed images of the body to reveal any metastases.
• Biopsy: Confirms whether cancer has spread to other tissues or organs.

• PSMA PET/CT: Metabolic identification of prostate cancer cells that express something called a Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen. 

Staying proactive in managing your health can improve outcomes. If you’ve been diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer, connect with us at Privado Health to learn about your treatment options.

Treatment Options for Metastatic Prostate Cancer

While metastatic prostate cancer is not curable, new treatments offer hope for patients to extend life and improve quality of life. The most common treatment strategies include:

1. Theranostics: A Revolutionary Approach

Theranostics combines diagnostic imaging with targeted therapy, allowing doctors to pinpoint cancerous cells and deliver treatment directly to them. Privado Health offers theranostic treatments, which have shown promise for men with metastatic prostate cancer. This treatment minimizes side effects and offers an alternative to chemotherapy.

2. Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy)

Hormone therapy reduces testosterone levels, slowing the growth of cancer cells. It is often the first line of treatment for metastatic prostate cancer.

3. Chemotherapy

Although chemotherapy can be effective, it comes with significant side effects. Many patients now explore theranostics as an alternative to traditional chemotherapy.

4. Radiation Therapy

Radiation may be used to relieve pain or treat bone metastases. Advanced radiation techniques, such as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), can target tumors with precision.

5. Immunotherapy and Clinical Trials

Emerging therapies, including immunotherapy, help boost the immune system to fight cancer. Patients with metastatic prostate cancer may also qualify for clinical trials exploring new treatment options. Explore your options on the official clinical trials database.

Living with Metastatic Prostate Cancer: A Whole-Health Approach

Managing metastatic prostate cancer involves more than just medical treatment. A comprehensive care plan that addresses physical, emotional, and nutritional health is essential. Privado Health offers a whole-health approach that integrates therapies such as nutrition counseling, mental health support, and physical fitness.

• Nutrition: Eating a healthy diet can help manage symptoms and improve energy levels.
• Exercise: Physical activity improves strength and reduces fatigue.
• Mental Health Support: Anxiety and depression are common among cancer patients; therapy and support groups can help.

Hope on the Horizon with Theranostics

For many patients, theranostics represents a breakthrough in cancer care. By targeting cancer cells with precision, it offers a new pathway to managing castration resistant metastatic prostate cancer with fewer side effects. Privado Health is at the forefront of bringing this innovative treatment to patients in the U.S.

Theranostics has already transformed cancer care for hundreds of patients in Germany and Australia, where Privado Health has been offering these treatments for years. Now, we’re excited to bring this same level of care to U.S. patients, giving them access to a brighter future.

Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Cancer Journey

Metastatic prostate cancer is a challenging diagnosis, but advancements in treatments like theranostics offer new hope. Early detection, a proactive care plan, and access to cutting-edge treatments are key to improving outcomes.

At Privado Health, we are committed to helping patients navigate this journey with compassion and expertise. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer, don’t hesitate to reach out to explore your treatment options.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and know that innovative solutions are available. Visit the American Cancer Society for more information on living with cancer, and consider joining support communities to connect with others going through similar experiences.