Is prostate cancer dangerous? How long can one live?

The harmfulness of prostate cancer varies depending on the stage of the disease, the patient's age and the treatment method. Early detection and active treatment can significantly prolong the survival period, while the prognosis of patients in the late stage is poor. The 5-year survival rate of early prostate cancer can reach 99%, while it may drop to less than 30% in the late stage. Treatment methods include surgery, radiotherapy, drug therapy, etc. The specific survival period needs to be evaluated based on individual conditions.

1. The harmfulness of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in men. Its early symptoms are not obvious and are easily ignored. As the disease progresses, symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and urgency may appear. In severe cases, it may metastasize to bones or other organs, causing complications such as pain and fractures. Advanced prostate cancer not only affects the quality of life, but may also endanger life.

2. Factors affecting survival

Staging: Early prostate cancer is confined to the prostate and has a better prognosis, with a 5-year survival rate close to 100%; in the late stage where it has metastasized, the survival rate drops significantly.

Age and health: People who are younger and in better health usually respond better to treatment and live longer.

Treatment methods: Comprehensive treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy can effectively control the disease and prolong survival.

3. Treatment methods

Surgical treatment: Radical prostatectomy is suitable for early-stage patients and can completely remove the tumor.

Radiation therapy: including external beam radiation and brachytherapy, suitable for patients who are unable to undergo surgery or for postoperative adjuvant therapy.

Drug treatment: Hormonal therapy such as anti-androgen drugs and targeted therapy can inhibit tumor growth, and chemotherapy is used for patients with advanced disease.

4. Lifestyle and rehabilitation advice

Dietary adjustment: Eat more foods rich in antioxidants, such as tomatoes, green tea, nuts, etc., and reduce high-fat diet.

Moderate exercise: 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking and swimming, can help improve immunity.

Psychological support: Join a patient support group and receive psychological counseling to relieve anxiety and depression.

The prognosis of prostate cancer is closely related to early detection and standardized treatment. Regular physical examinations, paying attention to physical changes, and actively cooperating with treatment are the keys to improving survival rates. For high-risk groups such as those with a family history and those over 50 years old, it is recommended to perform prostate-specific antigen PSA testing and rectal examination every year. Early detection and early treatment are the best strategies to defeat the disease.