A prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but asking the right questions will help you understand your diagnosis, explore treatment options, and feel confident in your care team. Here’s a guide to the essential questions to discuss with your doctor.
1. What grade and stage is my prostate cancer?
Understanding the specifics of your diagnosis is essential. Ask about the type, grade, and stage of the cancer, as these details will impact treatment recommendations and outcomes. Your doctor can explain your Gleason score, PSA level, and how aggressive the cancer might be.
2. What are my treatment options?
Prostate cancer can be treated with surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, or active surveillance, depending on the case. Ask about each option, including its purpose, effectiveness, and potential side effects. Your doctor can help you weigh the pros and cons of each treatment and explain which options align best with your needs.
3. How will this treatment affect my daily life?
Every treatment has unique impacts, from potential physical changes to lifestyle considerations. Inquire about the side effects, recovery times, and the possible impact on functions like urination, sexual health, and energy levels. Knowing what to expect helps you prepare for adjustments in your routine.
4. What are the potential risks and side effects?
Ask about both short-term and long-term side effects for each treatment option. This will help you evaluate how different treatments may impact your quality of life now and in the future.
5. How experienced are you in treating prostate cancer?
You want to feel confident in your care team’s experience and expertise. Inquire about your doctor’s experience with prostate cancer specifically, as well as the experience of the care team. Specialized expertise is especially valuable for complex cases.
6. What role will active surveillance play in my treatment plan?
Active surveillance may be an option for certain cases of prostate cancer, especially those detected at an early stage. Ask if this is a viable option for you and what monitoring would involve.
7. Will I need any additional tests?
In some cases, additional tests like imaging scans or genetic testing can provide more insight into your cancer and its behavior. These results can refine your treatment plan, so ask if any further assessments are necessary.
8. What resources are available for support?
A diagnosis can be emotionally taxing, so ask about available resources such as support groups, counseling, and educational materials. Many cancer centers offer support services to help you and your family navigate the journey ahead.
9. What lifestyle changes can help with my treatment and recovery?
Certain lifestyle modifications, such as exercise, diet, and stress management, can support your body through treatment and recovery. Ask if there are recommended activities or habits to adopt to improve your health and resilience.
10. What can my family do to support me during treatment?
Having a clear support plan helps both you and your loved ones feel more prepared. Your doctor can provide tips for how family members can assist you and connect them with support resources if needed.
Choosing the Right Care Team
After receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis, selecting a care team with a supportive, communicative, and experienced approach is vital. Look for doctors who specialize in prostate cancer, have a collaborative team, and are willing to answer your questions openly and thoroughly.
Trusted Prostate Cancer Experts in Kansas City
At KCUC, we specialize in prostate cancer care, providing more treatments than any other facility in the Kansas City region. Research supports the benefits of receiving care from a high-volume center, where extensive experience often correlates with improved outcomes. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology reinforces this, showing a positive link between facility experience and treatment success. Because we treat prostate cancer every day, our physicians, oncologists, and radiologists bring unparalleled expertise and focus to each case.
The Latest Cancer Technology
As your prostate cancer specialists in Kansas City, KCUC is proud to be able to offer prostate cancer patients the very latest technology at our Kansas City Proton Institute (KCPI) in Overland Park. This state-of-the-art facility brings proton therapy to thousands of patients and is the only office-based facility in the central United States. Proton therapy offers several advantages over traditional X-ray (photon) therapy. See why Healthy Kansas City Magazine called us a “Beacon of hope and innovation”. Read the full article here:
Revolutionizing Cancer Care: Inside the Kansas City Proton Institute
Collaborative Prostate Cancer Care Team
At KCUC, besides offering the latest cancer technology, we also believe in a team-based approach, where specialists work together for a seamless, comprehensive treatment plan. Our team includes over 35 urology cancer specialists, encompassing experts in surgery, pathology, radiation, and medical oncology. This collaborative model allows us to personalize your treatment and ensure that every detail, from accurate diagnosis to follow-up care, is handled with precision and care.
By prioritizing open communication among our specialists, we streamline your care, reduce treatment delays, and enhance your experience. Our integrated approach ensures you have access to a full spectrum of services and support so that you can focus on your health and recovery with confidence.
Compassionate, Patient-Centered Care
At KCUC, our commitment to excellence extends beyond medical expertise. We understand the emotional and physical challenges of a prostate cancer diagnosis and believe in treating each patient as a whole person. By emphasizing emotional support alongside physical health, we strive to reduce stress and anxiety, providing holistic care to make your journey a little easier.
Our mission is to provide high-quality, compassionate care and support you and your family every step of the way, helping you focus on what matters most… your well-being and recovery. If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kansas City Urology and Oncology. With our state-of-the-art technology, dedicated team of professionals, and commitment to patient-centered care, KCUC is changing the landscape of cancer treatment.