Radiation oncology for prostate cancer

External radiotherapy aims beams at the prostate from outside the body over a planned course. Brachytherapy places a radiation source in or near the prostate, while targeted radioisotope therapy delivers radiation through a medicine for selected advanced cancers. Each option has different preparation, monitoring and effects on urinary, bowel and sexual function.

The team reviews examination findings, scans, tumour grade and extent, urinary flow, bowel health and previous procedures. Difficulty passing urine can matter because some radiation approaches may temporarily increase urinary irritation or obstruction. Radiation may be used alone, with hormone treatment, or after another treatment depending on the situation.

Tell the team about urinary frequency, weak flow, nighttime urination, bowel disease, medicines and prior prostate procedures. Follow instructions for planning scans and bladder or bowel preparation. Keep appointments for blood tests and reviews, and report burning urine, worsening urgency, loose stools, rectal bleeding or new pain rather than waiting for the next visit.

Prostate removal surgery and robotic cancer surgery are alternatives or parts of a wider plan for some people. Ask how each option may affect continence, erections, bowel function and recovery time in your circumstances.

Contact your cancer team promptly for increasing difficulty passing urine, blood in the urine or stool, fever, persistent diarrhoea, or pain that is not controlled. Seek emergency help if you cannot pass urine, have heavy bleeding, severe abdominal or back pain, or sudden weakness.

Ask which radiation method is suitable and why, whether hormone treatment is needed, how urinary and bowel function will be protected, and how follow-up will measure the response. Ask about effects on erections and fertility, the expected visit pattern, and which symptoms require same-day advice.