External Beam Radiation for Prostate Cancer Treatment
According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, prostate cancer affects one out of every six men in the United States. Radiation therapy is one of the most common treatment options for the disease. If considering external beam radiation treatment, be sure you are fully informed of the advantages and potential side effects.
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Radiation Facts
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There are two main delivery methods of radiation therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer. Brachytherapy involves the implantation of radiative seeds near or in the cancerous tissue of the prostate gland. External beam radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation from an outside source to kill the malignant tumors within or near the prostate gland.
External Beam Advantages
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External beam radiation may cure localized prostate cancer. Incontinence and impotence are less common side effects than experienced with the more popular treatment option of surgery.
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Urinary Risks
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The six to nine week external beam radiation therapy can cause damage to the urethra resulting in bleeding, irritation and pain, urinary frequency, urgency and burning. Bleeding and pain can continue long-term.
Bowel Function Disadvantages
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External beam radiation treatment requires therapy five days a week for up to nine weeks. According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, the rectal wall receives peripheral damage with 6 to 8 percent of patients developing inflammation of the rectum, leading to diarrhea, frequent stools, passing of mucus and enough rectal bleeding to require a tampon or pad.
Adverse Effects
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Considerably more damage may occur as radiation treatment progresses, which may lead to ulceration of the anal canal, causing painful bowel movements and bleeding.
Sexual Side Effects
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Treatment usually causes erectile dysfunction and possible pubic hair loss. Radiation mutates sperm cells, so fathering a child after external beam therapy is highly unlikely.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Gordana Adamovic-Mladenovic
