Dr. Patrick Walsh, a renowned urologist and researcher at Johns Hopkins, has introduced a concept in prostate cancer treatment known as the “mothership theory.”
1. The Prostate as the “Mothership”
The theory suggests that the prostate gland isn’t just the site of the primary tumor—it can act like a “central hub” sending signals (chemical or hormonal) that encourage cancer cells elsewhere in the body to survive or grow.
Even tiny cancer cells that have spread to other areas (micrometastases) may rely on signals from the prostate to thrive.
2. Traditionally, treatment focuses on the prostate (surgery, radiation, etc.).
The mothership theory raises the idea that as long as the prostate is present and active, it could “feed” distant cancer cells.
This has led some doctors and researchers to consider treating the prostate aggressively, even when cancer has spread, to potentially cut off those signals.
3. Research Status
This is a conceptual theory, not a universally proven fact.
It’s still being studied and debated, and it hasn’t yet changed standard care guidelines.
In simple terms: Think of the prostate as a “command center” that can potentially help cancer cells elsewhere survive. Treating the prostate might, in theory, weaken those distant cells.