The Prostate Cancer Sourcebook: How to Make Informed Treatment Choices

While early detection can be critical, today, thanks to more sophisticated surgical techniques, state-of-the-art radiation technology, and improvements in drug therapy, the fight against prostate cancer has progressed dramatically.

Because prostate cancer has a unique profile in each patient, no one treatment is right for everyone. In The Prostate Cancer Sourcebook, a leading specialist from the New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center provides the essential information you need to better understand your or your loved one's individual diagnosis, and make knowledgeable, individualized choices. Here, in clear, concise language, is expert advice on:

Risk factors—family history, age, race, environment, and diet

• Diagnostic tests—basic screening tools, the DRE (digital rectal exam), and the PSA (prostate specific antigen) breakthrough
• Treatment options—what to expect from surgery, the different kinds of radiation, and hormonal therapy
• The right physician and the right treatment center—getting more than one opinion; surveying locations, HMOs, managed care, and your financial aid options
• Emotional support—sharing the decisions with your family; dealing with depression, anger, and stress
• Recovery—staying healthy after prostate cancer: sexuality, diet, and exercise

Key questions—what you should ask when and why

MARIAN BETANCOURT is the author of What to Do If You Get Breast Cancer and What to Do If You Get Colon Cancer (Wiley)

A Primer on the Prostate.

Diseases of the Prostate.

How Prostate Cancer Develops.

Understanding the Risk Factors.

GUIDELINES FOR DIAGNOSIS AND STAGING.

Diagnostic Tests.

The Controversial PSA Test.

Grading and Staging.

TREATMENT FOR EARLY LOCALIZED PROSTATE CANCER.

Watchful Waiting.

Surgery: Radical Prostatectomy.

Before and After Surgery.

External Beam Radiation Therapy.

Brachytherapy (Interstitial Radiation).

TREATMENT FOR ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER.

Hormonal Therapy for Metastatic Cancer.

MAKING THE DECISION.

Choosing Physicians and a Treatment Center.

Nonmedical Aids to Treatment.

Making Your Decision.

RECOVERY.

Coping With Temporary Incontinence.

Restoring Potency After Prostate Cancer.

Monitoring Your Health.

Appendices.

Index.