When it comes to treating prostate cancer, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your treatment plan depends on a bunch of factors like how advanced the cancer is, your overall health, and even your personal preferences. Some men may not even need treatment right away, while others may need to act fast. Let’s walk through the options.
1. Active Surveillance – The “Wait and See” Approach
Sometimes, doctors don’t rush into treatment. If your cancer is slow-growing and isn’t causing issues, they might suggest active surveillance. This means regular PSA tests, digital rectal exams, and biopsies to keep an eye on things. If the cancer starts getting aggressive, treatment begins.
2. Watchful Waiting – Keeping It Chill
This is for older men or those with other serious health conditions. Instead of regular monitoring and testing like in active surveillance, watchful waiting focuses on managing symptoms rather than treating the cancer itself. The idea is simple—if it’s not causing problems, there’s no need to rush into aggressive treatments.
3. Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy) – Taking It Out
If your doctor says the cancer is still confined to the prostate and needs to go, surgery might be the best option. A radical prostatectomy removes the prostate gland and sometimes nearby lymph nodes to stop the cancer from spreading. There are two main ways to do this:
- Open Surgery (The Traditional Route): This is the old-school method where the surgeon makes a single, large incision in the lower abdomen to remove the prostate. It gives the doctor a clear view of everything, but since it’s a bigger cut, recovery takes longer. Expect a bit more pain, more blood loss, and a longer hospital stay. You’ll have a scar, but hey, it’s a battle scar from fighting cancer.
🔗 Read more about open surgery - Robotic-Assisted Surgery (High-Tech & Less Invasive: This is the modern, minimally invasive option. Instead of one big cut, the surgeon makes a few small incisions and uses robotic tools to carefully remove the prostate. The surgeon controls everything from a console, giving them super precise movements. The perks? Less pain, less blood loss, shorter hospital stay, and a quicker recovery. Plus, the scars are tiny. Some studies even show better early recovery of bladder control and sexual function.
🔗 Read more about robotic-assisted surgery
4. Radiation Therapy – Zapping the Cancer
Instead of cutting out the prostate, radiotherapy kills cancer cells with high-energy rays. You can get it in two ways:
- External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT): The radiation is directed at the prostate from a machine outside your body. It’s a common option and usually requires multiple sessions over a few weeks.
- Brachytherapy: Instead of external radiation, small radioactive seeds are placed inside your prostate to target cancer cells directly.
This can be a good option for localized cancer or used after surgery to make sure nothing was left behind.
Side effects? You might experience fatigue, bowel changes, and erectile dysfunction, but these can be managed with proper care.
5. Hormone Therapy – Starving the Cancer
Prostate cancer feeds on testosterone, so hormone therapy aims to reduce testosterone levels or block its effects. This slows down cancer growth and is often used when cancer has spread beyond the prostate or in combination with other treatments.
Options include:
- Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists/antagonists: Drugs that lower testosterone levels.
- Anti-androgens: Medications that block testosterone’s effect on prostate cancer cells.
Side effects? Hot flashes, fatigue, and reduced libido. All are very much manageable.
6. Chemotherapy: The Heavy-Duty
If prostate cancer spreads beyond the prostate, chemo can help. It uses powerful drugs to attack fast-growing cancer cells. This isn’t usually the first treatment option, but for advanced cases, it can slow the cancer down.
7. Newer & Experimental Treatments (HIFU & Cryotherapy)
If you’re hearing about high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) or cryotherapy, these are newer, less invasive treatments that some doctors offer.
- HIFU: HIFU uses focused ultrasound waves to heat and destroy cancer cells in the prostate. It’s a less invasive option and is being used more frequently for localized prostate cancer.
- Cryotherapy: This treatment literally freezes prostate cancer cells to kill them. Small probes are inserted into the prostate, and extreme cold destroys the cancerous tissue. It’s not as common as other treatments, but for some, it’s a good option.
Not everyone is a candidate for these, but they can work for small, early-stage cancers.
Doctor’s Advice: Listen, They Know What They’re Doing
When it comes to prostate cancer, your doctor isn’t just there to run tests and give scary diagnoses. They’re your best guide through the journey, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond, following medical advice can make a huge difference.
Doctors consider your age, cancer stage, overall health, and even personal preferences before recommending anything. It’s tempting to rely on Google (we’ve all done it), but nothing beats a conversation with a professional who understands your specific case. So, ask questions, take notes, and stay involved in your own care.
Sourcing Medications – Getting What You Need in Nigeria
Finding and affording prostate cancer medication in Nigeria can feel like an extreme sport. Treatments like hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drugs are often expensive, and not all hospitals have them in stock. But there’s hope.
Where to Find Prostate Cancer Medications:
- Government Hospitals & Teaching Hospitals: These are your best bet for access to subsidized medications, thanks to programs like the Chemotherapy Access Partnership.
- Private Hospitals & Specialist Cancer Centers: Places like Lakeshore Cancer Centre in Lagos stock some of the latest treatments.
- SYNLAB & Trusted Pharmacies: Some well-known diagnostic centers and pharmacies stock prescribed medications.
- Cancer NGOs & Support Organizations: Groups like Project Pink Blue and the Nigerian Cancer Society sometimes provide assistance in sourcing medications.
Cancer Health Fund & Public-Private Partnerships
The Nigeria Cancer Health Fund (CHF) was created to make cancer drugs more affordable. Roche, in partnership with the Nigerian government and the World Bank, has introduced a subsidy model to help patients access medication at lower costs. If you’re in a government hospital, ask about this fund—it could significantly reduce the financial burden.
Additionally, the Chemotherapy Access Partnership, launched in 2019, helps cancer patients access 50% cheaper chemotherapy drugs at select teaching hospitals across the country. These include:
- Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital
- Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital
- Lagos University Teaching Hospital
- National Hospital Abuja
- Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital
- University College Hospital Ibadan
- University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu
Insurance Tips – Can Health Insurance Cover Prostate Cancer in Nigeria?
To be frank, health insurance in Nigeria is not perfect, and for a long time, cancer care wasn’t covered at all. But things are changing.
- The Nigeria National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is working on better coverage for cancer patients. Right now, it only covers some diagnostic tests and certain treatments.
- Private health insurance plans, like Hygeia HMO and Avon HMO, offer some cancer treatment coverage, but they vary depending on your plan.
- The Cancer Health Fund (CHF) now provides funding for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and cancer medications, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
What You Can Do:
- If you have private insurance, read the fine print to know what’s covered.
- Ask your employer about corporate health insurance plans that may cover cancer treatment.
- If you’re uninsured, check if you qualify for NHIS cancer subsidies at government hospitals.
Tracking Your Prostate Numbers (PSA & Gleason Score)
If there’s one thing you should stay on top of, it’s your PSA levels and Gleason Score, especially if you’re a Black man. Research shows that Black men are more likely to develop aggressive prostate cancer and at a younger age, so early testing isn’t just good advice, it could save your life.
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test
Think of your PSA test like a health report card for your prostate. It’s a simple blood test, but it can give your doctor a heads-up if something’s off.
- Normal PSA → Below 4 ng/mL (but higher numbers don’t always mean cancer).
- Rising PSA → Could signal cancer or an enlarged prostate (BPH).
- After Treatment → PSA should drop significantly. If it starts creeping back up, that’s a red flag.
NB: Black men tend to have naturally higher PSA levels, so tracking changes over time is more important than focusing on a single number.
Gleason Score: How Aggressive Is It?
If cancer is found, doctors use the Gleason Score (6-10) to measure how aggressive it is:
- 6 → Slow-growing, might not need treatment.
- 7 → Medium risk—depends on other factors.
- 8-10 → Aggressive, needs fast action.
Why This Matters for Black Men
- Twice as likely to die from prostate cancer compared to other racial groups.
- Cancer tends to be more aggressive and develop earlier in Black men.
- Doctors recommend starting PSA testing at 40-45, not waiting till 50 like others.
Other Treatment Plans – Exploring Your Options
Prostate cancer treatment has come a long way, and there are more options than ever. While some treatments are well-known, others are newer or used alongside traditional approaches to improve outcomes. Let’s explore some of these alternatives:
1. Immunotherapy
Your immune system is built to fight off invaders, but cancer can sometimes trick it. Immunotherapy helps your body recognize and attack prostate cancer cells. While still an emerging option, it’s promising for advanced cases that don’t respond to traditional treatments.
2. Targeted Therapy
Some prostate cancers have specific genetic changes and targeted therapy zeroes in on those. Drugs like PARP inhibitors block cancer’s ability to repair itself, slowing down or stopping its growth. This might be an option if genetic testing shows you have a certain mutation.
3. Bone-Directed Therapy
If prostate cancer spreads to the bones, it can cause pain and fractures. Bone-strengthening medications like bisphosphonates or denosumab help protect against bone loss and keep you moving with less discomfort.
4. Lifestyle & Supportive Therapies
While no diet or exercise plan can cure cancer, staying active, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and managing stress can improve treatment outcomes and overall well-being. Some men explore acupuncture, meditation, or even herbal supplements, but always check with your doctor before adding anything new to your routine.
Recognized Consultants in Nigeria
Here are some recognized consultants in Nigeria specializing in urology and oncology:
Urologists in Nigeria
These specialists focus on prostate health, urinary tract conditions, and male reproductive health.
- Dr. Adeola Badmus
Location: Evanson Medical Centre, Ogba, Lagos - Dr. Chinedu Anyadike
Location: Lagos Executive Cardiovascular Center, Eti-Osa, Lagos - Dr. Rufus Wale Ojewola
Location: Bode Thomas Street, Surulere, Lagos - Dr. Oladokun Alaba
Location: Ola Sheu, Agege, Lagos - Dr. Amusan Olatunde Ezekiel
Location: Shield Specialists Hospital, Port Harcourt, Rivers State - Dr. Anyandike Chinedu
Location: Center for Advanced Specialty Surgery (CASS), Victoria Island, Lagos - Dr. Taiwo Alabi
Location: Afrimed Specialist Hospital, Gbagada & Grandville Medical Center, Surulere, Lagos - Dr. Abimbola Adeola
Location: Redemption Hospital, Sagamu, Ogun State - Dr. Oghenewware Unuajowhofia
Location: Twins Clinic and Hospital, Warri, Delta State - Dr. Oyelekan A.
Location: Redemption Hospital, Sagamu, Ogun State - Dr. Okechukwu Okafor
Location: Shiloh Medical & Hospital, Port Harcourt, Rivers State - Dr. Ibadan E.I
Location: Mount Gilead Hospital, Uselu, Edo State - Dr. Oluyemi
Location: St. Shiloh Medical Centre, Sango Ota, Ogun State - Dr. Akpoghor Oghenevwegba
Location: Icon Clinic, Asaba, Delta State - Dr. Ohunjimi
Location: Divine Medical Centre, Ikoyi, Lagos - Dr. Otene Christ
Location: First Delta American Hospital & XtraCare Hospital, Asaba, Delta State - Dr. Obiesie
Location: First Delta American Hospital, Asaba, Delta State - Dr. Clinton
Location: Vinca Hospital, Kubwa, Abuja - Dr. Ikuero
Location: St. Mary’s Specialist Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos - Dr. Glain
Location: Calabar Women and Children’s Hospital, Calabar, Cross River State - Dr. Otobo
Location: Calabar Women and Children’s Hospital, Calabar, Cross River State - Dr. David Okoh
Location: University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu, Enugu State
Oncologists in Nigeria
These specialists diagnose and treat cancer, including prostate cancer.
- Dr. Anthonia Sowunmi
Location: Femi Ayantuga Crescent, Surulere, Lagos - Dr. Abiodun Popoola
Location: Olorunke Street, Shomolu, Lagos - Dr. Linda Onwu
Location: Aturanse, Surulere, Lagos - Dr. Lawal Bashiru
Location: Vinca Hospital, Kubwa, Abuja - Dr. Musbahu Abdullahi
Location: Queen’s Heritage Hospital Limited, Unguwa Uku, Kano State - Dr. Adeyemi
Location: Mount Gilead Hospital, Uselu, Edo State - Dr. Alabi
Location: Afrimed Specialist Hospital, Gbagada, Lagos - Dr. Adegboyega
Location: Divine Medical Centre, Ikoyi, Lagos