2 years ago · navdeep · Comments Off on How Aging Impacts Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
How Aging Impacts Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the U.S., following skin cancer.
In 2024 alone, nearly 300,000 men have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, and the disease has claimed 35,250 lives, according to the American Cancer Society.
Between 2007 and 2014, the number of prostate cancer diagnoses dropped significantly due to changes in screening recommendations, which led to fewer men being screened. However, since 2014, the incidence of prostate cancer has risen by 3% annually, with advanced-stage cases increasing by approximately 5% per year.
Although prostate cancer can occur at any age, it is more prevalent as men grow older, with the average age of diagnosis being 66.
As men age, the likelihood of developing prostate cancer increases, and decisions regarding screening and treatment become more complex. For older men, the disease can be more aggressive and deadly, making it essential to consider both chronological and biological age when discussing diagnosis and treatment options with your doctor.
The Importance of Biological Age
When it comes to prostate cancer, age is more than just a number. While your chronological age—the number of years you’ve been alive—gives a basic idea of risk, your biological age, which reflects your overall health based on lifestyle, genetics, and environment, is even more important.
For example, two men may both be 70 years old chronologically. However, if one has been a lifelong smoker, his biological age may be higher, meaning he’s at greater risk for other health issues like heart or lung disease. In contrast, a man with a lower biological age who leads a healthier lifestyle may benefit more from prostate cancer treatment.
Medical guidelines generally recommend prostate cancer treatment for men who are expected to live at least 10 more years. If you’re in good health, the treatment options are similar to those offered to younger men.
Should You Get Treatment for Prostate Cancer?
After receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis, there are several treatment paths you can take. These include hormone therapy, surgery, radiation, or opting for no immediate treatment. Deciding what’s best depends on your age, overall health, and the aggressiveness of the cancer.
Prostate cancer often grows slowly, meaning older men are more likely to die from other causes before the cancer becomes life-threatening. In such cases, treatment might cause more harm than good, particularly due to side effects like erectile dysfunction and incontinence. If other medical issues are already present, treatment—especially surgery—can be riskier.
For older men at higher risk of dying from other health conditions, doctors may recommend watchful waiting. This approach involves monitoring the cancer and treating symptoms if and when they occur. The focus is on improving quality of life rather than eliminating cancer.
If you are younger and diagnosed with low-risk prostate cancer, active surveillance may be recommended. Similar to watchful waiting, this method involves regular testing to monitor the cancer’s progression. If it begins to grow more aggressively, treatment can start.
How Treatment Differs for Older Adults
As you age, your chances of developing other chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes increase. These conditions can complicate treatment decisions. One common treatment, hormone deprivation therapy, is used to slow the growth of prostate cancer. While it isn’t a cure, it can stop the cancer from progressing for a time.
However, hormone therapy comes with its risks. Studies suggest it may increase the likelihood of developing high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, or stroke. Additionally, it can weaken bones, making fractures more likely, and can cause cognitive issues. It’s important to weigh these risks against the potential benefits of treatment.
A large study in 2008 involving over 200,000 men with prostate cancer, ages 65 to 84, found that men were more likely to die from heart failure than advanced prostate cancer. Only those with the most aggressive cases were more likely to die from the cancer itself.
Making the Right Decision
If you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer, it’s crucial to have a thorough discussion with your doctor. Together, you can weigh the risks and benefits of different treatment options, including watchful waiting or active surveillance, to find the approach that best fits your health and lifestyle. Your biological age, overall health, and personal preferences will guide this important decision.
Taking a proactive approach, including routine checkups and staying informed, can help ensure the best possible outcomes.
