“Every man deserves to be treated in a multidisciplinary prostate cancer clinic,” said Steve Clinton, MD, PhD. In this episode, Clinton gives a great overview of what every man needs to know about prostate cancer. This begins with regular screening – and the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test. This test should begin at the age of 40. A significant, year-to-year increase in a patient’s PSA level could warrant a biopsy to determine if there is cancer. If there is, the cancer is “graded” on what’s known as the Gleason Grading System. A higher score indicates a more aggressive prostate cancer and the likelihood of a more aggressive treatment plan, while a lower score could warrant active surveillance.

“I don’t like that term,” Clinton said of active surveillance. He prefers “watchful waiting” because “we’re not waiting for something to happen, we’re actively monitoring patients.” This monitoring includes yearly PSA tests, and additional biopsies to determine if the cancer has become more aggressive. He also described advances in treating prostate cancer. The introduction of robotic surgery and improvements in radiation therapy have led to fewer complications and better outcomes. Targeted therapies and immunotherapy drugs have also led to more treatment options and better outcomes. Clinton is one of the leaders of the James Multidisciplinary Prostate Cancer Clinic. “In one afternoon, a patient can see a urologist, radiation therapist and medical oncologist,” he said. “We can give you all the information you need to make your decision” on a treatment plan.