Prostate cancer survivor: I’m grateful for treatment at MD Anderson

My dad had prostate cancer when he was 66, so I never miss my annual physical and routine bloodwork.

In August 2021, when my prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test came back high, I found a local urologist and had a digital rectal exam, followed by an MRI. The MRI results showed abnormal concerns for cancer. So, on Jan. 11, 2022, I had a biopsy.

Two weeks later, I found out I had prostate cancer.

I remember feeling fear and panic. The urologist suggested I undergo surgery. He explained I could experience erectile dysfunction or urinary incontinence.

I knew then I wanted a second opinion at MD Anderson. If I was going to have surgery, I wanted it to be at MD Anderson for the best possible outcome.

Coming to MD Anderson for prostate cancer treatment

I had my first appointment at MD Anderson on March 2 with surgeon Brian Chapin, M.D., and radiation oncologist Quynh-Nhu Nguyen, M.D. MD Anderson’s expertise brought me relief. I had mentally prepared myself for surgery based on my research, but Dr. Nguyen told me I had other treatment options because I had early-stage localized prostate cancer.

Dr. Nguyen recommended a type of internal radiation called prostate brachytherapy using the MRI-assisted radiosurgery (MARS) technique under the care of Steven Frank, M.D.

Dr. Frank put me at ease and made me confident that MARS brachytherapy was the right treatment option for me when we met on April 20. He explained that the positive-contrast MRI marker technology developed at MD Anderson allows physicians to accurately locate the implanted seeds within the prostate. This helps make the delivery of the internal radiation treatment very precise.

Undergoing MARS brachytherapy treatment for prostate cancer

On May 25, I received the MARS brachytherapy implant during an outpatient procedure. Dr. Frank was very thorough and did an MRI after the procedure to make sure the treatment was delivered as planned.

Two days after the procedure, I was on the water surfing. I felt great. I had a burning sensation when I urinated for several weeks after the procedure. Dr. Frank prescribed an oral medication to help lessen this condition, which is resolving. Otherwise, my side effects were minimal.

Your PSA test: Keep score to help find cancer

I encourage other men to keep track of their PSA scores. If your numbers change from year to year, find a urologist. If you do not feel comfortable with the prognosis you are given, do your research. Be aware of the treatment options so you can find the right option for you if you are diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Request an appointment at MD Anderson online or by calling 1-877-632-6789.