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Next Steps After a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

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If you or your loved one has recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer, you may be feeling overwhelmed. Knowing the right steps to take, what questions to ask, and who to partner with in your care can be confusing. At Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers (RMCC), we understand the challenges of prostate cancer and are here to help. Read on to learn what you need to know following a diagnosis.

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What Kind of Doctor Should I Visit First After a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis?

You have likely already seen – or will soon see – a urologist, who will perform a biopsy to confirm whether you have prostate cancer. The biopsy can also provide important information about how aggressive the cancer is, which indicates how quickly it may grow.

After a diagnosis, it’s important to schedule a consultation with an oncologist who specializes in prostate cancer. RMCC’s experienced team of specialists offers the most advanced treatments and therapies, working closely with you to tailor the most effective plan to your individual needs and goals.

See Who's On Your Team

Should I Have Prostate Removal Surgery Before Seeing an Oncologist?

Before you move forward with any treatment, talk to your oncologist about your personal treatment goals. Surgery to remove the prostate is not always necessary, and your oncologist is here to help guide you through your options. We will discuss the potential benefits and side effects of each treatment and provide recommendations, so you can make an informed decision that’s right for you.

Understanding the Extent of Prostate Cancer

Learning as much as possible about your cancer – such as its location and how it may grow – can help you feel more in control as you work with your oncology team to make informed treatment decisions.

Staging Prostate Cancer

Your oncologist will use biopsy results and information from other diagnostic tests to determine the stage of your prostate cancer. The stage shows how much the cancer has grown and whether it has spread beyond the prostate, which helps guide your treatment plan. If needed, your oncologist may recommend additional scans or tests to get a clearer picture of your medical needs.  

Gleason Score & Grading

You will receive a Gleason score as part of your biopsy report. This score, often called the grade of your cancer, shows how the cancer cells look different from normal cells in your prostate. The score is used to help your team plan the timing of prostate cancer treatment.
Download the Free Prostate Cancer Treatment Guide Now

If you've been diagnosed with prostate cancer, you may be facing a number of decisions about your care. At RMCC, our prostate cancer specialists partner with you every step of the way. This guide will help you understand what to expect from treatment.

Download Now

Preparing for Your First Oncology Appointment

Your first oncology appointment is an important step. In addition to meeting your care team, you’ll likely receive a lot of new information. Consider asking a loved one or friend to join you. They can offer emotional support, listen closely, and help take notes.

To stay organized at this visit and throughout treatment, consider bringing a notebook to jot down important details, or use your smartphone to take notes. Write down any questions you have and keep track of symptoms you may be experiencing. Keeping information in one place can help you manage the many details of your care.

It’s also helpful to bring your health records with you to the appointment. This may include prostate cancer test results, recent imaging scans, your insurance card, and a list of any medications or supplements you take. Having this information on hand can help the visit go more smoothly.


Questions to Ask Your Oncologist About a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

  • How soon do I have to make a decision about treatment?
  • If watchful waiting is recommended, how often do I need testing or follow-up visits?
  • What treatment plan do you recommend when it’s time to start?
  • What can I expect at future appointments?
  • Should I make any changes to my lifestyle, such as diet, exercise, rest, or stress management?
  • What should I do about symptoms that may be affect my day-to-day activities? 
  • Are there activities I should avoid or add to my routine?
  • Are there vitamins or supplements I can take to support my prostate health?
  • Should I or my family seek genetic testing to see if this cancer is hereditary?
  • What supportive care resources are available through the practice or in the community?

 

Second Opinions on a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment are Important

It’s important to feel confident about your prostate cancer diagnosis and plan for treatment, even if watchful waiting is recommended. Seeking a second opinion
can help provide reassurance and peace of mind. Our oncologists regularly offer second opinions to people diagnosed with prostate cancer and fully support anyone who wants a different perspective on their diagnosis or treatment recommendations. In many cases, insurance plans cover second opinion visits, but it’s a good idea to contact your provider to confirm coverage before scheduling the appointment.