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Treatment options: radiation without ADT?

Prostate Cancer | Last Active: Jul 28 9:17am | Replies (39)

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@clyman

I had SBRT Proton (5 sessions) in May 2022 at MAYO with 6 months of ADT. I am feeling well now and my PSA tests have thus far been encouraging. No regrets with my decision other than the impacts ADT which is why I would really reconsider that decision now that newer research on Gleason 4+3 is shedding new light on this matter. The other matter to get your head around is that rectal bleeding is a relatively high probability shorter or longer term outcome with SBRT Proton treatment, even with the gel spacer that is important to have to protect the rectum. Be your own advocate on this matter when discussing it with the radiologist because they generally will not address it in any amount of detail during consults. I still believe my treatment decision was the right one despite some random light rectal bleeding. But if you can avoid the ADT, that is a far bigger issue in my mind. The impact on muscle mass and other metabolic matters is not insignificant. I am just now experiencing a slow return of testosterone and reduction in hot flashes. Also research the new ADT alternatives that instead of chemically castrating you simply act to block the testosterone produced by your body. Thus, the nasty side effects are far less. Not sure if it is covered by Medicare for your Gleason level but it is an example of how fast advancements are evolving. I feel your pain on the overload. Don't rush a decision. I have absolutely no regrets selecting radiation over surgery - but if the new perspectives on ADT for Gleason 4+3 had been published when I was at your point in the decision process, I absolutely would have avoided ADT. Hope this helps.

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Replies to "I had SBRT Proton (5 sessions) in May 2022 at MAYO with 6 months of ADT...."

75, Healthy, very active, ride 80-100 miles/ week, lift 3-4 times/wk. Diagnosed 1/1/24 MRI, Biopsy 4/24, PSMA. 4+3, Contained in prostate 3 Opinions including Mayo Rochester render SBRT/6 mos. ADT. Have not yet made a decision. Will ultimately have SBRT but on the fence with ADT given new research findings on ADT. Waiting on Decipher test. Will make mutual decision with Mayo Care Team. Do your own research, find a center of excellence. My best!