Prostate cancer

The stress of illness may be eased by joining a support group whose members share common experiences and problems. See support group - prostate cancer.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies greatly, primarily because the disease is found in older men who may have a variety of other complicating diseases or conditions, such as cardiac or respiratory disease, or disabilities that immobilize or greatly decrease activities.

Complications:

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Impotence is a potential complication after prostatectomy or radiation therapy. Recent improvements in surgical procedures have made this complication occur less often. Urinary incontinence is another possible complication. Medications can have side effects, including hot flashes and loss of sexual desire.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment if you are a man older than 50 who has:

Never been screened for prostate cancer (by rectal exam and PSA level determination)
Not maintained annual evaluations
A family history of prostate cancer

You should discuss the advantages and disadvantages to PSA screening with your physician.