Side Effects of Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer | Prostate Cancer Staging Guide

Summary

In this video, Dr. Scholz discusses the side effects of radiation therapy for prostate cancer, focusing on both short-term and long-term impacts. Short-term effects like fatigue, soreness, and mild urinary discomfort are generally manageable. Long-term effects can include erectile dysfunction, loss of ejaculation, fertility issues, and urinary problems such as increased frequency and urgency. Dr. Scholz emphasizes the role of modern technology, such as SpaceOAR, in minimizing risks like rectal burns. The importance of selecting skilled physicians and treatment centers is also highlighted for optimal outcomes.

Takeaways

• 😀 Radiation therapy for prostate cancer is less life-threatening than other cancers, so post-treatment quality of life is crucial.
• 😀 The risk of developing new cancers (bladder or rectal) due to radiation is very small, even in the long term (10-20 years).
• 😀 Urinary incontinence is more commonly caused by surgery than radiation therapy for prostate cancer.
• 😀 Advances like SpaceOAR technology have significantly reduced the risk of rectal burns from radiation.
• 😀 Short-term side effects of radiation therapy include mild to moderate fatigue, which generally resolves within 6-8 weeks.
• 😀 Local soreness or burning in the rectum or urinary area is common during treatment but usually resolves within a month.
• 😀 The treatment schedule for radiation therapy can be inconvenient, as it typically lasts 9 weeks, requiring daily visits to the clinic.
• 😀 Long-term side effects of radiation include sexual dysfunction, with about 50% of men experiencing impotence post-treatment.
• 😀 Radiation therapy may result in a loss of ejaculation, as it affects the prostate's ability to produce semen.
• 😀 Loss of fertility is a common outcome, but artificial insemination is still possible for men who wish to have children.
• 😀 Rare but serious long-term effects of radiation include stricture (scar tissue blocking urine flow) and bladder irritation, which can lead to frequent urination or disrupted sleep.

Q & A

What are the key side effects of radiation therapy for prostate cancer?

The main side effects of radiation therapy for prostate cancer include mild to moderate fatigue, local soreness around the rectum or urinary function, and potential long-term effects such as impotence, infertility, and urinary problems.

How has radiation therapy for prostate cancer improved over the years?

Radiation therapy has improved significantly in the last decade, with advancements like SpaceOAR technology reducing risks such as rectal burns and allowing for more precise targeting, leading to fewer side effects.

Is the fear of radiation causing new cancers still a valid concern?

While the fear of radiation causing new cancers was more prominent in the early years, the risk of developing bladder or rectal cancers is very low (around 10-20 years post-treatment) and should not significantly impact treatment decisions.

What is the risk of urinary incontinence from radiation therapy?

Urinary incontinence is primarily a side effect of surgery rather than radiation therapy. However, in rare cases, some patients may experience minor incontinence after radiation, but this is uncommon.

What advancements have reduced the risk of rectal burns from radiation therapy?

The risk of rectal burns has been nearly eliminated with the development of SpaceOAR technology, which helps to create a protective space between the prostate and the rectum, significantly reducing radiation exposure to the rectal area.

What are the common short-term side effects of radiation therapy?

Short-term side effects typically include mild to moderate fatigue, localized soreness or discomfort around the rectum and urinary function, and occasional burning sensations. These side effects usually resolve within a few weeks after treatment.

What are the long-term effects of radiation therapy on sexual function?

Long-term sexual side effects include impotence (difficulty achieving an erection), lack of ejaculation, and potential infertility. These effects can impact about half of patients, with a higher risk in older men.

Can men still have children after undergoing radiation therapy for prostate cancer?

While radiation therapy often leads to infertility, some men may still be able to have children through artificial insemination. However, natural conception is generally not possible for most men after treatment.

What is a urethral stricture and how is it related to radiation therapy?

A urethral stricture is a rare but serious side effect where scar tissue forms in the urethra, potentially blocking urine flow. This condition may require surgical correction, and while it is uncommon, it can lead to incontinence in some cases.

What urinary issues can arise as long-term side effects of radiation therapy?

Long-term urinary issues from radiation therapy may include increased urgency, frequency, and nocturia (waking up frequently at night to urinate). This can be bothersome and, in some cases, persist for years, though medications can help manage symptoms.