Prostate Cancer

Awareness and treatment of prostate cancer have improved dramatically over the last 20 years. Today, nearly three million men in the U.S. diagnosed with the disease are leading longer and more active lives.

At the Riverside Cancer Institute, we’re proud to help lead the fight against prostate cancer in our communities throughout the heartland of Illinois and Western Indiana. Each location features a dedicated team – including board-certified urologists, medical and radiation oncologists, surgeons and more —who deliver effective treatments that minimize pain and the side effects that can impact your life. 

To request an appointment with a specialist close to home, call (815) 933-9660. You can also find an oncologist anytime online.

About Prostate Cancer

The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland in males located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Prostate cancer occurs when the cells in the prostate show a highly abnormal growth pattern. Almost all prostate cancers are adenocarcinomas, which develop from the gland cells that make the prostate fluid that is added to the semen.

Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among American men. Prostate cancer is mostly diagnosed in men over age 65 and becomes increasingly common with advancing age. It also is more common in African-American men than in Caucasian, Hispanic or Asian-American men.

Because prostate cancer often develops slowly, many men do not notice any symptoms in the early stages, when it’s easiest to treat. Warning signs in more advanced stages can include:

• Trouble urinating
• Blood in semen
• Discomfort in the pelvic area
• Bone pain
• Erectile dysfunction

Prevention

While there’s no proven strategy to prevent prostate cancer, there are some ways you may help lower your risk. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, including a father or brother with the disease, our Cancer Screening and Risk Assessment program offers personalized genetic counseling to address concerns. If needed, your counselor can also coordinate genetic testing, walk through the results with you and help plan for any next steps.  

Detection & Diagnosis

If you’re 50 or older, Riverside recommends annual prostate cancer screenings to help you stay on top of your health. Our Riverside urologists perform these quick and routine tests right in the office. If we find anything abnormal, we’ll also arrange all follow-up tests.

Personalized Treatment

If you’re diagnosed with prostate cancer, rest assured you’re in highly skilled and caring hands. Our multi-skilled team will work closely together and with you to create a personal treatment plan. We offer the most minimally invasive technology available, including da Vinci® robotic prostatectomy for less pain and faster recovery, as well as the latest radiation therapies which delivers high-dose, highly precise treatments to kill cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue. All treatments are designed to help protect the delicate nerves that control urinary and sexual function.

Support for Every Step

We’re committed to providing the all the education, tools and resources you and your loved ones need to manage a cancer diagnosis. You’ll find a full range of free or low-cost cancer support services, including nutritional, spiritual and financial counseling, rehabilitation, survivorship programs and more to meet your needs.