The most used technique for staging prostate cancer is the tumor, nodes, and metastasis (TNM) staging strategy.
The prostate is a little gland that produces semen and is located beneath the bladder. When cells in the prostate begin to grow uncontrollably or change, prostate cancer starts.
The importance of staging for prostate cancer
While some prostate cancers grow slowly and may not affect a man’s health for years, others can be aggressive and spread swiftly. Doctors can better assess the prognosis and choose the appropriate course of treatment when they are aware of the stage. The most used technique for staging prostate cancer is the tumor, nodes, and metastasis (TNM) staging strategy.
Prostate cancer’s four stages
A, Step 1
Early stage localized: At stage 1, the prostate cancer is either localized or restricted to a small area. Since the tumor is usually too tiny to be felt during a digital rectal exam (DRE), it is often discovered by biopsy due to elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels. Treatment options include active surveillance (watchful waiting), surgery (prostate ectomy), or radiation therapy.
b. Second Stage
Advanced locally but contained: In this stage, the tumor is still considered localized even though it is larger or more noticeable than in stage 2. Even while the cancer is still only in the prostate, it can have migrated to other glandular regions.
c. The third step
By stage 3, the cancer has progressed to nearby tissues, such as the bladder neck, and seminal vesicles, in addition to the prostate. This is known as regional dispersion. Nevertheless, despite its local spread, the malignancy does not affect distant organs. The goal of treatment is to control the progression by hormone therapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.
d. Phase Four
A disease that has spread to distant organs, lymph nodes, or bones is known as metastatic. This stage, which is usually more challenging to treat, may entail immunotherapy, advanced hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or clinical trials. Controlling the cancer progression, lowering symptoms, and improving quality of life become the main goals of treatment.
Important lessons learned
Early detection: Many men may not show symptoms for years due to the slow progression of prostate cancer.
Tailored treatment: There are several therapies available, depending on the patient’s overall health and the stage and grade of prostate cancer.
Managing risk factors: Men of a certain ethnicity (usually African American men are more susceptible), family history, and advancing age are risk factors for prostate cancer. talking to your physician about the risk factors.
