Understanding Prostate Cancer and Advanced Treatment Options at St. Luke’s Medical Center

St. Luke’s Medical Center remains at the forefront of prostate health, with a multidisciplinary team of urologists, oncologists, and nuclear medicine specialists recognized for their leadership in theranostics—an innovative field that blends therapy and diagnostics. Early detection of prostate cancer and proactive discussions with healthcare providers empower patients to explore the best prostate cancer treatment options available.

What Is Prostate Cancer?

The prostate gland is a small, walnut-sized gland in males responsible for producing fluid that becomes part of semen. Located below the bladder and in front of the rectum, its position is crucial as the urethra passes through its center. As men age, the prostate typically enlarges, sometimes causing urinary issues. Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate grow uncontrollably.

Prostate cancer diagnosis typically involves:

• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
• Prostate Biopsy (removal of a small tissue sample for examination)

Types of Prostate Cancer

Nearly all prostate cancer cases are adenocarcinomas, originating from the gland cells. Other rare types include:

• Small cell carcinoma (neuroendocrine carcinoma)
• Other neuroendocrine tumors
• Transitional cell carcinoma
• Sarcomas

Prostate cancer symptoms vary, and the disease can grow slowly or aggressively. Early detection of prostate cancer improves prostate cancer survival rates and leads to more effective treatment options.

Pre-Cancerous Conditions

Some studies suggest that prostate cancer may develop from pre-cancerous conditions, such as:

• Prostatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia (PIN): Abnormal prostate cells that are not cancerous but may indicate an increased risk.
• Proliferative Inflammatory Atrophy (PIA): A condition involving smaller prostate cells and inflammation, with ongoing research into its link to prostate cancer risk factors.

Prostate Cancer Symptoms

In its early stages, prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, prostate cancer warning signs may include:

• Difficulty urinating or weak urine flow
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Bone pain from prostate cancer metastasis
• Unintentional weight loss
• Erectile dysfunction 

Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer

Several factors can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer:

• Age: Prostate cancer risk increases after age 50.
• Family History: A family history of prostate cancer or breast cancer (especially with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations) increases risk.
• Obesity: Linked to aggressive prostate cancer and higher recurrence rates.

Complications of Prostate Cancer

If untreated or advanced, prostate cancer complications can include:

• Metastasis: Cancer can spread to the bladder, bones, and other organs, causing severe pain and fractures.
• Urinary Incontinence: Surgery or radiation treatments may cause urinary issues.
• Erectile Dysfunction: Prostate cancer surgery and radiation may impact sexual health, with available solutions such as medications and medical devices.

For patients with advanced prostate cancer, Lutetium-177 PSMA Therapy offers a targeted approach. This prostate cancer treatment uses a radioactive compound that binds to PSMA receptors on prostate cancer cells, delivering radiation directly to tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Key Benefits of Lutetium-177 PSMA Therapy:

• Precision Targeting: Directs radiation to prostate cancer cells with high PSMA expression.
• Minimized Side Effects: Targets only cancerous prostate cells, reducing collateral damage.
• Improved Survival Rates: Extends life expectancy for patients who no longer respond to conventional therapies.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Prostate Cancer

While no method can fully prevent prostate cancer, adopting a healthy lifestyle can lower risk:

• Healthy Diet for Prostate Cancer Prevention: Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Focus on Whole Foods vs. Supplements: Supplements have not been proven to reduce prostate cancer risk.
• Exercise and Prostate Health: Staying active improves overall well-being and weight management.
• Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases the risk of aggressive prostate cancer.

Why Choose St. Luke’s for Lutetium-177 PSMA Therapy?

St. Luke’s Medical Center is undoubtedly the trailblazer in this field, having pioneered theranostics in the Philippines in 2018. St. Luke’s continues to raise the bar with the most experienced, advanced accreditation, and international recognition to boot, you will feel safe here. Patients are in expert hands with a multidisciplinary team of prostate cancer specialists, oncologists, and nuclear medicine physicians working together to deliver personalized, precision-based care. Backed by advanced imaging and treatment technology, St. Luke’s offers not just treatment, but peace of mind—ensuring each patient receives care that is effective, safe, and tailored to their unique needs.

Prostate cancer treatment has come a long way—and Lutetium-177 PSMA Therapy is one of today’s most promising breakthroughs. This targeted therapy offers new hope for patients by delivering precision treatment with fewer side effects.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, trust St. Luke’s Medical Center to provide advanced, expert-guided care.

At St. Luke’s, we’re not just treating cancer—we’re improving lives. With cutting-edge technology, internationally trained specialists, and a patient-first approach, we’re committed to helping you move forward with confidence.

The right choice is right here.

Schedule a consultation with our prostate cancer experts today.