nima
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Posts:2
Hello,
My father recently (February 2013) had radiation treatment done after cancer has spread to bones from prostrate gland after being diagnosed with prostrate cancer in may 2010.Doctors are suggesting getting a chemotherapy done in order to prevent future recurrence of cancer cells along with taking a bone strengthening medicine. They had given the option of taking the chemo now vs waiting to take it when/if symptoms arise later in the future. Can you please advise if waiting to take Chemo is a good approach or taking it now is better.
thank you,
Nima
Forums
Reply # - March 5, 2013, 07:32 AM
Reply To: Chemotherapy after Radiation
The short answer is that there is no established role for chemotherapy in this setting. Chemotherapy for prostate cancer is only proven to be beneficial in men who have prostate cancer that has metastasized to the bones and progressed through the hormone therapy that is almost always the first approach as systemic therapy.
That said, it is always reasonable to consider an individualized approach for a patient's personal case scenario, as long as the patient understands the range of options and that what is being recommended isn't considered the "standard of care". Right now, the textbook answer is that there is not a role for chemotherapy as a preventive measure in patients being treated for prostate cancer with curative intent.
-Dr. West
Reply # - March 5, 2013, 10:33 AM
Reply To: Chemotherapy after Radiation
Thank you Dr. West. Appreciate your prompt response.