Starting Proton Treatments for Prostate Cancer: Any experiences?

Posted by desertrat @desertrat, Feb 5, 2022

I am 69, just been diagnosed with prostate cancer, Gleason score of 3 + 4, PSA is 4.2. I have opted to do 28 treatments of proton radiation only. I would appreciate hearing from others who have been through this and how it worked out for you. Thanks in advance!

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gankster | @gankster | Feb 6, 2022

@desertrat, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in June '21 at the age of 73 and with a 6.5 PSA. Like you, I was Gleason 7 (3+4). Had no side effects during or after my 28 Proton-only treatments. My first follow-up PSA is next month (March '22) so I'll know more about my current situation then. According to my radiation oncologist, I should expect this PSA to drop by 50%, followed by another 50% reduction at 6 months, so stay tuned!

Happy trails to you.

waynen | @waynen | Feb 6, 2022

I had 20 treatments 3 years ago. The treatments are pain free and last less than a minute. The only side effect was some pain while urination that started a week in. Flomax drug took care of pain but needed to continue using it because radiation can have lasting effect on muscles in urethra. I have 6 month check ups and PSA has been negligible every time. Other then the commitment to the time for treatments, the side effects are much better then friends who chose surgery. You will likely meet other men going through the same experience. The group experience helps make it through it.

Best of luck.