Tumor targeted using 12-shot technique
Prostate cancer has become increasingly prevalent in Turkey in recent years, with genetic factors, advancing age, and unhealthy lifestyle habits such as a cholesterol-rich Western diet, overweight, inactivity, smoking, and alcohol consumption being significant risk factors. Unfortunately, early diagnosis is often delayed due to concerns that the testing and treatment methods may negatively affect sexuality. Radiation Oncology Specialist Dr. Enis Özyar stated that around 30,000 men are diagnosed annually with prostate cancer in Turkey, and three out of every 100 men die due to this cancer today.
Dr. Özyar emphasizes that all men are at risk for prostate cancer, and its incidence increases with age. As the tumor progresses insidiously, it is crucial to have a PSA test, which indicates prostate cancer and is checked in the blood, from the age of 45 to facilitate early diagnosis. Prostate cancer in the family, particularly on the father’s side, is a major cause for concern. Those with a family history of this disease should undergo testing from the age of 40.
Prostate cancer is symptomless in the early stages, and by the time it manifests itself in advanced stages, the tumor mass may exert pressure on the urinary tract. However, rising PSA levels do not always indicate a tumor. Even aggressive cancers may not produce much PSA. Dr. Enis Özyar recommends that a biopsy be performed after imaging if there is stiffness in the prostate tissue, irrespective of the PSA value.
In the early stages, surgical and radiotherapeutic treatments can effectively treat prostate cancer, while hormonal and novel systemic treatments are utilized in advanced stages. Dr. Enis Özyar underscores the instrumental role of technological advancement in ensuring successful treatment with novel-generation therapies. He explains that the MRIdian method, which involves radiotherapy, displays the tumor instantly and clearly by integrating Magnetic Resonance (MR) into the radiotherapy equipment, facilitates better visualization of the prostate, and better shields the surrounding organs. With personalized treatment planning based on MR images taken before each treatment session, the irradiation success of the target is enhanced and less damage is done to the surrounding organs.
Dr. Enis Özyar highlights the MRIdian method’s effectiveness in treating many cancers, including prostate cancer. This method is employed in different situations, such as early limited-stage cancer where treatment is completed in 1.5 weeks with five fractions administered every two days. Furthermore, this method is utilized in treating patients post-operation where treatment lasts 25-33 sessions. In cases where there is disease in limited areas of the body, such as bones, adrenal glands, and lymph nodes, success can be achieved with short-term (1-5 sessions) treatment. MRIdian, which provides radiation oncologists with surgical precision, is the only treatment method employed in the early stages.
The MRIdian method is beneficial in ensuring successful treatment for prostate cancer while minimizing damage to surrounding organs, and Dr. Enis Özyar recommends that men consider this novel treatment approach for effective reproductive health preservation.
