In recent years, prostate cancer has become the most common cancer diagnosed in men, with a five-year survival rate of 97%. However, Dr. Christien Kluwe, a radiation oncologist at Mays Cancer Center at UT Health San Antonio, believes that the way men with prostate cancer are approached needs to be revolutionized.
Kluwe emphasizes the importance of balancing disease control and quality of life when treating prostate cancer patients. He questions whether every patient needs androgen deprivation therapy like testosterone blockers and aims to identify those who will benefit significantly from a decrease in testosterone levels. Kluwe believes in treating patients with the appropriate therapy based on their individual needs and not putting them through treatments that may not provide substantial benefits.
In addition to his research on hormonal therapy, Kluwe is also exploring new radiation techniques such as stereotactic body radiation therapy. This precise and powerful treatment allows for the delivery of high doses of radiation in just five days, compared to the traditional eight weeks of treatment. By using tiny pellets the size of grains of rice, radiation can be directed specifically to the cancerous cells, sparing healthy surrounding tissue.
The collaboration between TPR and The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, known as Science & Medicine, explores how scientific advancements in San Antonio can influence medical practices globally. This partnership aims to showcase how research and innovations in San Antonio are shaping the future of medicine. With advancements like these, men with prostate cancer have better options for treatment than ever before.
