Radiation and prostate cancer: what to know

Radiotherapy directs radiation from outside the body towards a planned treatment area. Brachytherapy places small radioactive sources in or near the prostate so the dose is concentrated around the tumour. A targeted radioisotope therapy travels through the bloodstream and attaches to particular cancer cells when the cancer has the required features.

Planning may include scans, blood tests, assessment of urinary symptoms and a review of previous treatments. Possible effects depend on the area treated and can include tiredness, bowel changes, urinary irritation or changes in sexual function. Your team can explain which effects are more relevant to your plan.

Bring a list of medicines, supplements and previous cancer treatments. Ask whether the aim is to control cancer in the prostate, ease symptoms from a treated area, or address cancer outside the prostate. Discuss how treatment could affect passing urine, bowel habits, erections, fertility and daily activities.

Radiation may be used alone or alongside hormone treatment, surgery or other care. Comparing radiotherapy, brachytherapy, surgery and observation requires your scan findings, tumour details and personal priorities. Keep the written plan and contact number for the treatment team available.

Contact your oncology team promptly for worsening difficulty passing urine, inability to empty your bladder, new bleeding, severe pain, fever, chills or vomiting. Seek urgent help for sudden leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe back pain, because these symptoms can signal pressure on nerves and need rapid assessment.

Which radiation method fits the location and extent of my prostate cancer? What preparation, number of visits and follow-up checks should I expect? Which urinary, bowel, sexual or bone-related effects should I report straight away? How will radiation fit with hormone treatment or surgery?