diagnosed with prostate cancer: managing treatments, support and resources

understanding your prostate cancer diagnosis

when prostate cancer is detected in a biopsy sample, a pathologist assigns it a grade, determined by the degree of abnormality observed under the microscope.this is called a gleason classification system . cancers with higher grades appear more abnormal and tend to have a greater potential for rapid growth.

the tnm staging system categorizes the extent of the cancer, including the tumor size, lymph node involvement, and metastasis. there are four stages in the tnm system (1 to 4), the higher the number on your pathology report the more the cancer has spread.

prostate-specific antigen (psa) is a blood test used to monitor prostate health. elevated levels may indicate prostate cancer.

finding the right healthcare provider

when selecting a urologist or oncologist specializing in prostate cancer, consider their experience and expertise in treating this specific type of cancer. look for professionals who have a track record of successfully managing prostate cancer cases, stay up-to-date with the latest treatment options, and are part of multidisciplinary teams that can offer comprehensive care.

alberta: visit alberta health services for information on prevention and screening, referrals, patient support, and wellness resources.

british columbia: bc cancer can provide information on diagnosis, staging, and treatment for prostate cancer.

manitoba: cancercare manitoba offers prostate cancer patients and family members with information on screening, treatment and care, and access to healthcare providers.

new brunswick: the new brunswick cancer network offers educational resources, clinical trials information, and a cancer patient navigation program.

newfoundland and labrador: the nl prostate cancer support groups provides free online resources and peer support groups for prostate cancer patients.

nova scotia: visit nova scotia health to learn more about the programs and services available at the province’s two cancer care centres.

ontario: cancer care ontario provides prostate cancer pathway maps to help you better navigate your cancer journey.

prince edward island: the prince edward island government offers online cancer support and information for patients and families.

quebec: the quebec cancer foundation provides individuals with information on screening tests for early detection, cancer treatments, and clinical research.

saskatchewan: the saskatchewan health authority offers prostate assessment information and treatment options.

assembling your healthcare team

• urologist – prostate cancer is often diagnosed and treated by a urologist, who specializes in the urinary tract and male reproductive system. find a reputable urologist with experience in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.
• radiation oncologist – radiologists interpret imaging like mris, ct scans, and bone scans to help determine the extent and spread of the cancer. their expertise is crucial for accurate staging.
• medical oncologist – if chemotherapy or other systemic treatments are needed, a medical oncologist can provide expert guidance and oversee your treatment plan.
• oncology social worker – an oncology social worker provides support to patients and families dealing with cancer. they offer emotional counseling, connect patients to resources and support services, and help navigate cancer treatment and survivorship.
• physical therapist – a physical therapist can help address the physical impacts of cancer treatment before surgery, as well as manage or prevent any side effects including pain, weakness, incontinence, and erectile dysfunction
• palliative care specialist – for advanced stages of prostate cancer, a palliative care specialist can enhance the quality of life, manage symptoms, and provide emotional support for both patients and their families.

understanding your treatment options

here’s a quick overview of the treatment options for prostate cancer :

• surgery to examine, remove, or repair tissue. if the cancer has not spread, a prostatectomy may be used to remove the prostate gland.
• radiation therapy for prostate cancer involves the targeted use of high-energy beams to destroy or damage cancer cells within the prostate gland. it’s often used with the goal of curing cancer or alleviating symptoms in advanced cases.
• hormone therapy or androgen deprivation therapy (adt) to lower the levels of male hormones in the body that stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells or block their effects. adt is often used as an initial treatment or in combination with other therapies to control and manage the disease.
• chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to attack and slow the growth of cancer cells. it’s often used in advanced or metastatic cases when cancer has not spread beyond the prostate and aims to control the disease and manage symptoms.
• targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically targets the molecules or processes involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. it’s often used in advanced prostate cancer cases to slow the progression of the disease and minimize harm to healthy cells.

the type of treatment your healthcare team will recommend will depend on several factors , including:

• the type, grade, and stage of prostate cancer
• the symptoms you’re experiencing
• age, health, and pre-existing medical conditions
• prostate-specific antigen (psa) levels
• possible treatment side effects
• personal preferences

accessing financial support and coverage

• the employment insurance (ei) sickness benefit provides short-term financial aid (up to 15 weeks) for eligible unemployed workers.
• the ei compassionate care benefit provides financial assistance to support individuals who need to take time off work to care for a family member who is gravely ill and at risk of dying within six months. the program aims to provide temporary income support (up to 26 weeks) to help caregivers during a difficult and emotional time.
• the family caregiver benefit for adults offers financial aid to caregivers who are providing care or assistance to adults over the age of 18 who are facing critical illness or injury. through this benefit, eligible caregivers can receive a maximum of 15 weeks of financial assistance.
• the canada pension plan disability benefit provides financial assistance to individuals facing a prolonged disability that prevents them from working on a regular basis. as part of the canada pension plan, it offers supplemental income for those who are unable to work due to a disability.

• the canada caregiver credit (ccc) is a tax credit available for individuals caring for a spouse or common-law partner with a physical or mental impairment.
• the medical expense tax credit (metc) is a tax credit offered by the canada revenue agency to help individuals offset some of the costs associated with eligible medical expenses.

utilizing support services

cancer support organizations like the canadian cancer society , prostate cancer foundation canada , and local cancer support groups offer a wealth of educational resources, support services, hotlines, and online communities.

if you’re struggling to overcome the emotional and mental toll caused by your diagnosis, counseling or psychotherapy services can help address the psychological effects of living with prostate cancer. therapists can help patients and their families cope with anxiety, depression, and the high stress levels that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis. plus, holistic therapies, such as meditation, yoga, and massage therapy can also help you better manage stress and improve relaxation throughout your cancer treatment.

a healthy, well-balanced diet can also improve your recovery from prostate cancer, contributing to a longer, healthier life. consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist who can provide guidance on maintaining a healthy diet throughout your treatment and recovery.

living with prostate cancer in canada

prostate cancer patients may encounter challenges in their daily life such as fatigue, changes in urinary and sexual function, and emotional distress. open communication with healthcare providers is key to overcoming these challenges. they can offer guidance on symptom management, lifestyle adjustments, exercise, and counseling.