Mayo Clinic Health Matters How Modern Science Is Changing Advanced Prostate Cancer
Dec 23, 2025
Dr. Elisabeth Heath, a leading genitourinary oncologist at Mayo Clinic, shares her extensive knowledge of advanced prostate cancer. She discusses the importance of early screening for high-risk individuals and the latest treatments, including hormone therapy and radiopharmaceuticals. Dr. Heath emphasizes that many patients can lead fulfilling lives despite their diagnosis and highlights a patient success story from clinical trials. She also expresses optimism about future research developments in prostate cancer therapies.
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When To Start Prostate Screening
- Get screened starting around age 45–50, earlier if you have family history or are African-American.
- Discuss both PSA blood test and digital rectal exam with your primary care provider for shared decision-making.
PSMA PET Improves Staging Accuracy
- PSMA PET scans more accurately find prostate cancer spread than traditional CT and bone scans when available.
- But standard CT plus bone scan remains acceptable where PET access is limited.
Intensify Hormone Therapy Early
- Start with androgen-deprivation therapy and add androgen receptor pathway inhibitors to intensify treatment.
- Consider chemotherapy or triplet therapy for high-burden disease after expert consultation.