If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with an advanced stage of prostate cancer, you likely have a lot of questions. The healthcare professionals who come to make up your care team are an invaluable resource for information and support.
Getting a diagnosis of advanced-stage cancer can be overwhelming. But lots of different resources and professionals are available to help you along the way.
In addition to your team of doctors, there are people who can help you talk about other concerns.
Read on to find out who is likely to be on your care team, where to get different treatment questions answered, and how to reach out for emotional support.
A urologist is a doctor who specializes in treating diseases and conditions of the urinary system and male reproductive system. This is probably the doctor who gave you your first diagnosis.
They’ll be involved throughout your treatment and can answer questions about how the prostate functions and how to handle complications with your urinary tract and bladder.
Some urologists have had extra training to treat cancer. This is called a urologic oncologist. They can perform surgeries and supervise the treatment of prostate cancer.
This doctor specializes in cancer treatments. You will see a medical oncologist to do tests and screenings to find out what stage your cancer is in.
Your oncologist will also recommend a treatment plan, including chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or other medications.
They can answer questions about what may happen as the cancer progresses and tell you which treatment options are available at each phase of your cancer journey. Your oncologist will monitor how well each treatment works and recommend changes as needed.
You can also ask an oncologist about the most recent treatment options and whether they feel you’d be a good candidate for any clinical trials.
A radiation oncologist supervises radiation therapy.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays targeted at cancer cells to kill them or slow growth. With advanced cancer, radiation is used to delay cancer growth and reduce painful symptoms.
Your radiation oncologist will recommend the type of radiation and walk you through the process. You’ll also discuss any symptoms from the radiation therapy. They’ll monitor you during treatment.
After the treatments are complete, your radiation oncologist will check to see the effect radiation has on your cancer growth.
Some social workers specialize in oncology, meaning they are uniquely trained to work with people with cancer and their families.
A social worker can help you devise a plan if things get overwhelming. They can also talk with you and your family about feelings surrounding your diagnosis and treatment and offer resources for emotional support.
For many families, a cancer diagnosis can also mean financial worries. A social worker can help you with health insurance and determine if you qualify for financial assistance programs.
During your cancer treatment, your nutrition needs may change. A dietitian can help you develop a healthy eating plan to ensure you get enough vitamins and minerals.
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There are organizations that specialize in providing information and support to people with prostate cancer and their families.
You can contact them for doctor and treatment center recommendations near you and ways to access other resources.
Many also post the latest news and research developments about prostate cancer on their websites. These include:
Friends and family can offer support, but they may not always understand what it’s like to be living with advanced cancer.
A support group can help you connect with others going through the same thing. You can share information and resources and talk about fears and concerns.
Organizations like the American Cancer Society maintain a
If you don’t feel up to meeting a group in person, trying an online chat or closed social media group can still help you connect and share with others.
