Prostate cancer: low risks should only be actively monitored
There is a significant innovation in the recently published prostate cancer treatment recommendations of the oncology guideline program: patients with low-risk prostate cancer should now only undergo so-called active surveillance. Surgery or radiotherapy is no longer the preferred treatment method in these cases. This change can save many patients unnecessary treatment and preserve their quality of life, especially their sex life and continence.
Prostate cancer mainly affects men in the second half of life. The probability of developing the disease increases with age. Around 60,000 people are affected every year, which is partly due to increasing life expectancy. Prostate cancer can occur in various forms, from less aggressive to life-threatening types.
Until now, surgical interventions have predominantly been carried out for all risk groups of localized prostate cancer. However, according to the S3 guidelines published in May 2024, active surveillance should be the only method for low-risk cases. Surveillance may also be possible for higher risks if certain criteria are met.
Recent studies have also significantly reduced the importance of rectal palpation in early detection. This examination is now only optional if a PSA value has been determined.
"Active surveillance for low-risk prostate cancer has finally arrived in Germany. This means that many sufferers can lead a carefree life without the consequences of unnecessary therapy," says Prof. Dr. med. Martin Schostak, Director of the University Clinic for Urology, Uro-oncology, Robot-assisted and Focal Therapy Magdeburg.
Early detection: an important topic
Significant progress has been made in the early detection of prostate cancer through the introduction of innovative technologies such as multi-parametric MRI, machine image fusion and high-resolution ultrasound. The aim is to reduce invasive diagnostic procedures such as sampling to an absolute minimum or even avoid them altogether. The range of treatment options has also expanded significantly. If monitoring is not sufficient, focal therapy can sometimes suffice as an individual treatment method. The University Clinic for Urology, Uro-oncology, Robot-assisted and Focal Therapy Magdeburg offers three different methods for the targeted treatment of each region of the prostate: Focal One®, focal brachytherapy and focal laser therapy are particularly gentle procedures.
The University Medical Center Magdeburg stands for high-quality and individually tailored treatments for prostate cancer by experienced physicians and state-of-the-art technology. The Prostate Cancer Center at Magdeburg University Hospital works under the motto: "Always as much as necessary, but always as little as possible!"
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