Half of prostate cancer focal therapy use found to fall outside current guideline-supported groups
As focal therapy gains popularity as a less invasive treatment option for some men with prostate cancer, a national study led by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh found that some men may be receiving treatment that is either unnecessary or not aggressive enough for their cancer.
A national study conducted by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh has revealed that approximately half of the men receiving focal therapy for prostate cancer fall outside the patient groups for which its use is supported by current clinical guidelines. Focal therapy, a less invasive treatment option, targets only the cancerous portion of the prostate gland, aiming to preserve quality of life while minimizing side effects such as urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction.
The study, published in JAMA, emphasizes the need for evidence-based treatment decisions aligned with clinical guidelines. While focal therapy may be suitable for some patients with intermediate-risk disease, it may be unnecessary for those with low-risk prostate cancer and insufficient for men with high- or very high-risk disease.
The researchers stress the importance of ensuring that new treatments are adopted only for those most likely to benefit, as long-term cancer outcomes, retreatment rates, side effects, and quality of life remain unclear.
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Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Study Questions How Prostate Cancer Focal Therapy Is Being Used medpagetoday.com
