Podcasts about cancer and oncology

Urologic oncologist Dr. Peter Carroll presents the latest research on active surveillance as a preferred approach for managing low-risk prostate cancer and selected cases of intermediate-risk disease. Drawing from two decades of UCSF data, he explains how long-term outcomes support the safety and effectiveness of delaying treatment for carefully monitored patients. Carroll emphasizes that surveillance decisions should be guided by MRI imaging, PSA density, cancer volume, histologic subtype, and genomic testing. He notes that while many men experience gradual changes over time, only a small percentage require immediate treatment. Carroll also discusses innovations such as AI-assisted pathology and risk profiling to reduce unnecessary procedures. His data-driven approach offers patients a personalized path that preserves quality of life without compromising outcomes. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40801]

Urologic oncologist Dr. Peter Carroll presents the latest research on active surveillance as a preferred approach for managing low-risk prostate cancer and selected cases of intermediate-risk disease. Drawing from two decades of UCSF data, he explains how long-term outcomes support the safety and effectiveness of delaying treatment for carefully monitored patients. Carroll emphasizes that surveillance decisions should be guided by MRI imaging, PSA density, cancer volume, histologic subtype, and genomic testing. He notes that while many men experience gradual changes over time, only a small percentage require immediate treatment. Carroll also discusses innovations such as AI-assisted pathology and risk profiling to reduce unnecessary procedures. His data-driven approach offers patients a personalized path that preserves quality of life without compromising outcomes. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40801]

Urologic oncologist Dr. Peter Carroll presents the latest research on active surveillance as a preferred approach for managing low-risk prostate cancer and selected cases of intermediate-risk disease. Drawing from two decades of UCSF data, he explains how long-term outcomes support the safety and effectiveness of delaying treatment for carefully monitored patients. Carroll emphasizes that surveillance decisions should be guided by MRI imaging, PSA density, cancer volume, histologic subtype, and genomic testing. He notes that while many men experience gradual changes over time, only a small percentage require immediate treatment. Carroll also discusses innovations such as AI-assisted pathology and risk profiling to reduce unnecessary procedures. His data-driven approach offers patients a personalized path that preserves quality of life without compromising outcomes. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40801]

Urologic oncologist Dr. Peter Carroll presents the latest research on active surveillance as a preferred approach for managing low-risk prostate cancer and selected cases of intermediate-risk disease. Drawing from two decades of UCSF data, he explains how long-term outcomes support the safety and effectiveness of delaying treatment for carefully monitored patients. Carroll emphasizes that surveillance decisions should be guided by MRI imaging, PSA density, cancer volume, histologic subtype, and genomic testing. He notes that while many men experience gradual changes over time, only a small percentage require immediate treatment. Carroll also discusses innovations such as AI-assisted pathology and risk profiling to reduce unnecessary procedures. His data-driven approach offers patients a personalized path that preserves quality of life without compromising outcomes. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40801]

Urologic oncologist Dr. Peter Carroll presents the latest research on active surveillance as a preferred approach for managing low-risk prostate cancer and selected cases of intermediate-risk disease. Drawing from two decades of UCSF data, he explains how long-term outcomes support the safety and effectiveness of delaying treatment for carefully monitored patients. Carroll emphasizes that surveillance decisions should be guided by MRI imaging, PSA density, cancer volume, histologic subtype, and genomic testing. He notes that while many men experience gradual changes over time, only a small percentage require immediate treatment. Carroll also discusses innovations such as AI-assisted pathology and risk profiling to reduce unnecessary procedures. His data-driven approach offers patients a personalized path that preserves quality of life without compromising outcomes. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40801]

Radiation oncologist Dr. Julian Hong explains how radiation therapy works and its central role in treating prostate cancer, both when the disease is localized and when it has spread to limited areas. He outlines major radiation options, including external beam radiation, stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), and brachytherapy, and describes how treatment plans are carefully tailored using imaging, planning scans, and computer modeling to maximize precision and minimize side effects. Hong highlights advances in targeting and beam modulation, which allow for safer, more effective treatment. He also discusses typical timelines for treatment, short- and long-term side effects, and the importance of ongoing follow-up to manage late effects of therapy. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40803]

Radiation oncologist Dr. Julian Hong explains how radiation therapy works and its central role in treating prostate cancer, both when the disease is localized and when it has spread to limited areas. He outlines major radiation options, including external beam radiation, stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), and brachytherapy, and describes how treatment plans are carefully tailored using imaging, planning scans, and computer modeling to maximize precision and minimize side effects. Hong highlights advances in targeting and beam modulation, which allow for safer, more effective treatment. He also discusses typical timelines for treatment, short- and long-term side effects, and the importance of ongoing follow-up to manage late effects of therapy. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40803]

UCSF researchers June Chan and Stacey Kenfield share evidence-based strategies for improving prostate cancer outcomes through exercise and diet. They highlight studies showing that physical activity—including resistance and high-intensity interval training—is linked to lower risk of prostate cancer progression and death. They discuss plant-based diets, dietary indices, and specific foods like tomatoes, fish, and nuts, along with the benefits of substituting plant oils for butter. Their analysis includes findings on racial disparities and underscores the need for inclusive research. They also describe current clinical trials exploring lifestyle tools and offer guidance on navigating diet and exercise choices during cancer survivorship. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40808]

UCSF researchers June Chan and Stacey Kenfield share evidence-based strategies for improving prostate cancer outcomes through exercise and diet. They highlight studies showing that physical activity—including resistance and high-intensity interval training—is linked to lower risk of prostate cancer progression and death. They discuss plant-based diets, dietary indices, and specific foods like tomatoes, fish, and nuts, along with the benefits of substituting plant oils for butter. Their analysis includes findings on racial disparities and underscores the need for inclusive research. They also describe current clinical trials exploring lifestyle tools and offer guidance on navigating diet and exercise choices during cancer survivorship. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40808]

UCSF researchers June Chan and Stacey Kenfield share evidence-based strategies for improving prostate cancer outcomes through exercise and diet. They highlight studies showing that physical activity—including resistance and high-intensity interval training—is linked to lower risk of prostate cancer progression and death. They discuss plant-based diets, dietary indices, and specific foods like tomatoes, fish, and nuts, along with the benefits of substituting plant oils for butter. Their analysis includes findings on racial disparities and underscores the need for inclusive research. They also describe current clinical trials exploring lifestyle tools and offer guidance on navigating diet and exercise choices during cancer survivorship. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40808]

UCSF researchers June Chan and Stacey Kenfield share evidence-based strategies for improving prostate cancer outcomes through exercise and diet. They highlight studies showing that physical activity—including resistance and high-intensity interval training—is linked to lower risk of prostate cancer progression and death. They discuss plant-based diets, dietary indices, and specific foods like tomatoes, fish, and nuts, along with the benefits of substituting plant oils for butter. Their analysis includes findings on racial disparities and underscores the need for inclusive research. They also describe current clinical trials exploring lifestyle tools and offer guidance on navigating diet and exercise choices during cancer survivorship. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40808]

UCSF researchers June Chan and Stacey Kenfield share evidence-based strategies for improving prostate cancer outcomes through exercise and diet. They highlight studies showing that physical activity—including resistance and high-intensity interval training—is linked to lower risk of prostate cancer progression and death. They discuss plant-based diets, dietary indices, and specific foods like tomatoes, fish, and nuts, along with the benefits of substituting plant oils for butter. Their analysis includes findings on racial disparities and underscores the need for inclusive research. They also describe current clinical trials exploring lifestyle tools and offer guidance on navigating diet and exercise choices during cancer survivorship. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40808]

Prostate cancer and its treatments can significantly impact bone health, increasing the risk of fractures and weakening the immune system. Dr. Terence Friedlander explains how hormone therapy, radiation, and chemotherapy contribute to bone loss and highlights the importance of regular monitoring. He reviews the role of bone-building cells and the effects of osteopenia and osteoporosis, conditions that become more common with age and can be worsened by cancer therapies. Friedlander outlines tools like the Dexa scan and FRAX calculator to assess bone density and fracture risk, and discusses prevention strategies, including adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, weight-bearing exercise, and the use of medications like bisphosphonates and denosumab. He emphasizes proactive bone care for men with prostate cancer to help reduce complications and improve outcomes. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40812]

Dr. Steven Seyedin presents an overview of PSA recurrence and risk factors for assessment. A PSA test is a blood test used to detect prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in the blood, which can be elevated in cases of prostate cancer and is a common screening tool. He explains how PET, CT, and MRI work, highlighting the precision of PSA PET in detecting cancer spread by targeting PSA proteins on tumor cells. This imaging method combines PET and CT to reveal metastatic disease with greater accuracy than traditional scans. Seyedin addresses the strengths of different imaging agents, emphasizing that access, not brand, is key. He also cautions against false positives, especially in bone lesions, which can mislead diagnosis. By improving staging accuracy, PSA PET supports better treatment planning and outcomes. Ongoing studies explore its use earlier in diagnosis, potentially replacing biopsy or MRI in select cases. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40805]

Prostate cancer and its treatments can significantly impact bone health, increasing the risk of fractures and weakening the immune system. Dr. Terence Friedlander explains how hormone therapy, radiation, and chemotherapy contribute to bone loss and highlights the importance of regular monitoring. He reviews the role of bone-building cells and the effects of osteopenia and osteoporosis, conditions that become more common with age and can be worsened by cancer therapies. Friedlander outlines tools like the Dexa scan and FRAX calculator to assess bone density and fracture risk, and discusses prevention strategies, including adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, weight-bearing exercise, and the use of medications like bisphosphonates and denosumab. He emphasizes proactive bone care for men with prostate cancer to help reduce complications and improve outcomes. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40812]

Dr. Steven Seyedin presents an overview of PSA recurrence and risk factors for assessment. A PSA test is a blood test used to detect prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in the blood, which can be elevated in cases of prostate cancer and is a common screening tool. He explains how PET, CT, and MRI work, highlighting the precision of PSA PET in detecting cancer spread by targeting PSA proteins on tumor cells. This imaging method combines PET and CT to reveal metastatic disease with greater accuracy than traditional scans. Seyedin addresses the strengths of different imaging agents, emphasizing that access, not brand, is key. He also cautions against false positives, especially in bone lesions, which can mislead diagnosis. By improving staging accuracy, PSA PET supports better treatment planning and outcomes. Ongoing studies explore its use earlier in diagnosis, potentially replacing biopsy or MRI in select cases. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40805]

Prostate cancer and its treatments can significantly impact bone health, increasing the risk of fractures and weakening the immune system. Dr. Terence Friedlander explains how hormone therapy, radiation, and chemotherapy contribute to bone loss and highlights the importance of regular monitoring. He reviews the role of bone-building cells and the effects of osteopenia and osteoporosis, conditions that become more common with age and can be worsened by cancer therapies. Friedlander outlines tools like the Dexa scan and FRAX calculator to assess bone density and fracture risk, and discusses prevention strategies, including adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, weight-bearing exercise, and the use of medications like bisphosphonates and denosumab. He emphasizes proactive bone care for men with prostate cancer to help reduce complications and improve outcomes. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40812]

Dr. Steven Seyedin presents an overview of PSA recurrence and risk factors for assessment. A PSA test is a blood test used to detect prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in the blood, which can be elevated in cases of prostate cancer and is a common screening tool. He explains how PET, CT, and MRI work, highlighting the precision of PSA PET in detecting cancer spread by targeting PSA proteins on tumor cells. This imaging method combines PET and CT to reveal metastatic disease with greater accuracy than traditional scans. Seyedin addresses the strengths of different imaging agents, emphasizing that access, not brand, is key. He also cautions against false positives, especially in bone lesions, which can mislead diagnosis. By improving staging accuracy, PSA PET supports better treatment planning and outcomes. Ongoing studies explore its use earlier in diagnosis, potentially replacing biopsy or MRI in select cases. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40805]

Dr. Steven Seyedin presents an overview of PSA recurrence and risk factors for assessment. A PSA test is a blood test used to detect prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in the blood, which can be elevated in cases of prostate cancer and is a common screening tool. He explains how PET, CT, and MRI work, highlighting the precision of PSA PET in detecting cancer spread by targeting PSA proteins on tumor cells. This imaging method combines PET and CT to reveal metastatic disease with greater accuracy than traditional scans. Seyedin addresses the strengths of different imaging agents, emphasizing that access, not brand, is key. He also cautions against false positives, especially in bone lesions, which can mislead diagnosis. By improving staging accuracy, PSA PET supports better treatment planning and outcomes. Ongoing studies explore its use earlier in diagnosis, potentially replacing biopsy or MRI in select cases. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40805]

Prostate cancer and its treatments can significantly impact bone health, increasing the risk of fractures and weakening the immune system. Dr. Terence Friedlander explains how hormone therapy, radiation, and chemotherapy contribute to bone loss and highlights the importance of regular monitoring. He reviews the role of bone-building cells and the effects of osteopenia and osteoporosis, conditions that become more common with age and can be worsened by cancer therapies. Friedlander outlines tools like the Dexa scan and FRAX calculator to assess bone density and fracture risk, and discusses prevention strategies, including adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, weight-bearing exercise, and the use of medications like bisphosphonates and denosumab. He emphasizes proactive bone care for men with prostate cancer to help reduce complications and improve outcomes. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40812]

Prostate cancer and its treatments can significantly impact bone health, increasing the risk of fractures and weakening the immune system. Dr. Terence Friedlander explains how hormone therapy, radiation, and chemotherapy contribute to bone loss and highlights the importance of regular monitoring. He reviews the role of bone-building cells and the effects of osteopenia and osteoporosis, conditions that become more common with age and can be worsened by cancer therapies. Friedlander outlines tools like the Dexa scan and FRAX calculator to assess bone density and fracture risk, and discusses prevention strategies, including adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, weight-bearing exercise, and the use of medications like bisphosphonates and denosumab. He emphasizes proactive bone care for men with prostate cancer to help reduce complications and improve outcomes. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40812]

Dr. Steven Seyedin presents an overview of PSA recurrence and risk factors for assessment. A PSA test is a blood test used to detect prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in the blood, which can be elevated in cases of prostate cancer and is a common screening tool. He explains how PET, CT, and MRI work, highlighting the precision of PSA PET in detecting cancer spread by targeting PSA proteins on tumor cells. This imaging method combines PET and CT to reveal metastatic disease with greater accuracy than traditional scans. Seyedin addresses the strengths of different imaging agents, emphasizing that access, not brand, is key. He also cautions against false positives, especially in bone lesions, which can mislead diagnosis. By improving staging accuracy, PSA PET supports better treatment planning and outcomes. Ongoing studies explore its use earlier in diagnosis, potentially replacing biopsy or MRI in select cases. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40805]

Dr. Samuel Washington presents an in-depth overview of prostatectomy, a surgical option for treating prostate cancer confined to the prostate gland. He explains how robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery allows for precise removal of the prostate and seminal vesicles while minimizing recovery time and hospital stay. Washington discusses the importance of imaging, biopsy results, and patient risk levels in guiding decisions about lymph node removal and nerve-sparing techniques. He emphasizes realistic expectations around recovery, including urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, and outlines strategies for managing these outcomes, such as rehabilitation programs and medication. He also addresses the anatomical changes caused by surgery and the impact on fertility and sexual function. Emerging technologies aim to further improve surgical precision and cancer removal. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40802]

Dr. Samuel Washington presents an in-depth overview of prostatectomy, a surgical option for treating prostate cancer confined to the prostate gland. He explains how robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery allows for precise removal of the prostate and seminal vesicles while minimizing recovery time and hospital stay. Washington discusses the importance of imaging, biopsy results, and patient risk levels in guiding decisions about lymph node removal and nerve-sparing techniques. He emphasizes realistic expectations around recovery, including urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, and outlines strategies for managing these outcomes, such as rehabilitation programs and medication. He also addresses the anatomical changes caused by surgery and the impact on fertility and sexual function. Emerging technologies aim to further improve surgical precision and cancer removal. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40802]

Dr. Samuel Washington presents an in-depth overview of prostatectomy, a surgical option for treating prostate cancer confined to the prostate gland. He explains how robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery allows for precise removal of the prostate and seminal vesicles while minimizing recovery time and hospital stay. Washington discusses the importance of imaging, biopsy results, and patient risk levels in guiding decisions about lymph node removal and nerve-sparing techniques. He emphasizes realistic expectations around recovery, including urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, and outlines strategies for managing these outcomes, such as rehabilitation programs and medication. He also addresses the anatomical changes caused by surgery and the impact on fertility and sexual function. Emerging technologies aim to further improve surgical precision and cancer removal. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40802]

Dr. Samuel Washington presents an in-depth overview of prostatectomy, a surgical option for treating prostate cancer confined to the prostate gland. He explains how robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery allows for precise removal of the prostate and seminal vesicles while minimizing recovery time and hospital stay. Washington discusses the importance of imaging, biopsy results, and patient risk levels in guiding decisions about lymph node removal and nerve-sparing techniques. He emphasizes realistic expectations around recovery, including urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, and outlines strategies for managing these outcomes, such as rehabilitation programs and medication. He also addresses the anatomical changes caused by surgery and the impact on fertility and sexual function. Emerging technologies aim to further improve surgical precision and cancer removal. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40802]

Dr. Samuel Washington presents an in-depth overview of prostatectomy, a surgical option for treating prostate cancer confined to the prostate gland. He explains how robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery allows for precise removal of the prostate and seminal vesicles while minimizing recovery time and hospital stay. Washington discusses the importance of imaging, biopsy results, and patient risk levels in guiding decisions about lymph node removal and nerve-sparing techniques. He emphasizes realistic expectations around recovery, including urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, and outlines strategies for managing these outcomes, such as rehabilitation programs and medication. He also addresses the anatomical changes caused by surgery and the impact on fertility and sexual function. Emerging technologies aim to further improve surgical precision and cancer removal. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40802]

Prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death among men in the U.S., with evolving screening and treatment practices reshaping care in 2025. UCSF's Dr. Matthew Cooperberg highlights a shift away from overdiagnosis and overtreatment of low-risk cancers, focusing instead on identifying aggressive disease through tools like MRI and advanced biomarker tests. A new “smarter screening” model now guides primary care, recommending long testing intervals for men with low PSA levels. While active surveillance has increased nationally, significant variation in care remains, and racial disparities—especially for Black men—persist. Patients are encouraged to take time in making treatment decisions, as prostate cancer often progresses slowly and allows for thoughtful, personalized care. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40796]

Prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death among men in the U.S., with evolving screening and treatment practices reshaping care in 2025. UCSF's Dr. Matthew Cooperberg highlights a shift away from overdiagnosis and overtreatment of low-risk cancers, focusing instead on identifying aggressive disease through tools like MRI and advanced biomarker tests. A new “smarter screening” model now guides primary care, recommending long testing intervals for men with low PSA levels. While active surveillance has increased nationally, significant variation in care remains, and racial disparities—especially for Black men—persist. Patients are encouraged to take time in making treatment decisions, as prostate cancer often progresses slowly and allows for thoughtful, personalized care. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40796]

Prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death among men in the U.S., with evolving screening and treatment practices reshaping care in 2025. UCSF's Dr. Matthew Cooperberg highlights a shift away from overdiagnosis and overtreatment of low-risk cancers, focusing instead on identifying aggressive disease through tools like MRI and advanced biomarker tests. A new “smarter screening” model now guides primary care, recommending long testing intervals for men with low PSA levels. While active surveillance has increased nationally, significant variation in care remains, and racial disparities—especially for Black men—persist. Patients are encouraged to take time in making treatment decisions, as prostate cancer often progresses slowly and allows for thoughtful, personalized care. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40796]

Prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death among men in the U.S., with evolving screening and treatment practices reshaping care in 2025. UCSF's Dr. Matthew Cooperberg highlights a shift away from overdiagnosis and overtreatment of low-risk cancers, focusing instead on identifying aggressive disease through tools like MRI and advanced biomarker tests. A new “smarter screening” model now guides primary care, recommending long testing intervals for men with low PSA levels. While active surveillance has increased nationally, significant variation in care remains, and racial disparities—especially for Black men—persist. Patients are encouraged to take time in making treatment decisions, as prostate cancer often progresses slowly and allows for thoughtful, personalized care. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40796]

Prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death among men in the U.S., with evolving screening and treatment practices reshaping care in 2025. UCSF's Dr. Matthew Cooperberg highlights a shift away from overdiagnosis and overtreatment of low-risk cancers, focusing instead on identifying aggressive disease through tools like MRI and advanced biomarker tests. A new “smarter screening” model now guides primary care, recommending long testing intervals for men with low PSA levels. While active surveillance has increased nationally, significant variation in care remains, and racial disparities—especially for Black men—persist. Patients are encouraged to take time in making treatment decisions, as prostate cancer often progresses slowly and allows for thoughtful, personalized care. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40796]

In this presentation, UCSF's Dr. Eric Small explains the role of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in prostate cancer treatment across various stages of the disease. He discusses how prostate cancer cells rely on testosterone to grow and how medications can effectively reduce testosterone levels by targeting hormone signals or blocking production. Dr. Small outlines the different forms of ADT—injectables, implants, and pills—and reviews their pros, cons, and side effect profiles, including cardiovascular considerations. He also describes how combining ADT with newer androgen signaling inhibitors has improved survival outcomes in patients with metastatic or recurrent disease. The talk emphasizes the importance of balancing treatment benefits with side effects and highlights the role of shared decision-making in choosing the right approach. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40799]

In this presentation, UCSF's Dr. Eric Small explains the role of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in prostate cancer treatment across various stages of the disease. He discusses how prostate cancer cells rely on testosterone to grow and how medications can effectively reduce testosterone levels by targeting hormone signals or blocking production. Dr. Small outlines the different forms of ADT—injectables, implants, and pills—and reviews their pros, cons, and side effect profiles, including cardiovascular considerations. He also describes how combining ADT with newer androgen signaling inhibitors has improved survival outcomes in patients with metastatic or recurrent disease. The talk emphasizes the importance of balancing treatment benefits with side effects and highlights the role of shared decision-making in choosing the right approach. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40799]

In this presentation, UCSF's Dr. Eric Small explains the role of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in prostate cancer treatment across various stages of the disease. He discusses how prostate cancer cells rely on testosterone to grow and how medications can effectively reduce testosterone levels by targeting hormone signals or blocking production. Dr. Small outlines the different forms of ADT—injectables, implants, and pills—and reviews their pros, cons, and side effect profiles, including cardiovascular considerations. He also describes how combining ADT with newer androgen signaling inhibitors has improved survival outcomes in patients with metastatic or recurrent disease. The talk emphasizes the importance of balancing treatment benefits with side effects and highlights the role of shared decision-making in choosing the right approach. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40799]

In this presentation, UCSF's Dr. Eric Small explains the role of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in prostate cancer treatment across various stages of the disease. He discusses how prostate cancer cells rely on testosterone to grow and how medications can effectively reduce testosterone levels by targeting hormone signals or blocking production. Dr. Small outlines the different forms of ADT—injectables, implants, and pills—and reviews their pros, cons, and side effect profiles, including cardiovascular considerations. He also describes how combining ADT with newer androgen signaling inhibitors has improved survival outcomes in patients with metastatic or recurrent disease. The talk emphasizes the importance of balancing treatment benefits with side effects and highlights the role of shared decision-making in choosing the right approach. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40799]

In this presentation, UCSF's Dr. Eric Small explains the role of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in prostate cancer treatment across various stages of the disease. He discusses how prostate cancer cells rely on testosterone to grow and how medications can effectively reduce testosterone levels by targeting hormone signals or blocking production. Dr. Small outlines the different forms of ADT—injectables, implants, and pills—and reviews their pros, cons, and side effect profiles, including cardiovascular considerations. He also describes how combining ADT with newer androgen signaling inhibitors has improved survival outcomes in patients with metastatic or recurrent disease. The talk emphasizes the importance of balancing treatment benefits with side effects and highlights the role of shared decision-making in choosing the right approach. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40799]

Dr. Thomas Hope presents PSMA PET imaging as a transformative advancement in prostate cancer care. This technology uses a radioactive tracer to precisely detect cancer spread by targeting PSMA, a protein found on prostate cancer cells. It outperforms traditional bone and CT scans in sensitivity and accuracy, allowing for better staging and treatment planning. PSMA PET improves radiation therapy outcomes by revealing cancer in areas previously undetected. While multiple tracers exist, all FDA-approved options show similar performance, and accessibility is the key factor. Hope also discusses current challenges, including false positives and rare cases of PSMA-negative tumors. Ongoing research explores replacing biopsy or MRI with PSMA PET in select patients. Today, PSMA PET is considered the standard imaging method in nearly all stages of prostate cancer. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40806]

Dr. Hao Nguyen presents focal therapy as a promising treatment option for carefully selected prostate cancer patients, especially those with intermediate-risk, localized disease. Unlike whole-gland treatments, focal therapy targets only the tumor while preserving healthy tissue, reducing the risk of side effects like urinary or sexual dysfunction. UCSF offers multiple approaches—high-intensity focused ultrasound, cryotherapy, and irreversible electroporation—selected based on tumor location and anatomy. Dr. Nguyen emphasizes the importance of precise imaging, MRI fusion biopsy, and genomic testing for patient selection and treatment planning. Early outcomes show encouraging results, with most patients avoiding surgery or radiation within two years and maintaining quality of life. While not yet standard first-line care, focal therapy is gaining traction through research and expert consensus. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40804]

Dr. Hao Nguyen presents focal therapy as a promising treatment option for carefully selected prostate cancer patients, especially those with intermediate-risk, localized disease. Unlike whole-gland treatments, focal therapy targets only the tumor while preserving healthy tissue, reducing the risk of side effects like urinary or sexual dysfunction. UCSF offers multiple approaches—high-intensity focused ultrasound, cryotherapy, and irreversible electroporation—selected based on tumor location and anatomy. Dr. Nguyen emphasizes the importance of precise imaging, MRI fusion biopsy, and genomic testing for patient selection and treatment planning. Early outcomes show encouraging results, with most patients avoiding surgery or radiation within two years and maintaining quality of life. While not yet standard first-line care, focal therapy is gaining traction through research and expert consensus. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40804]

Dr. Thomas Hope presents PSMA PET imaging as a transformative advancement in prostate cancer care. This technology uses a radioactive tracer to precisely detect cancer spread by targeting PSMA, a protein found on prostate cancer cells. It outperforms traditional bone and CT scans in sensitivity and accuracy, allowing for better staging and treatment planning. PSMA PET improves radiation therapy outcomes by revealing cancer in areas previously undetected. While multiple tracers exist, all FDA-approved options show similar performance, and accessibility is the key factor. Hope also discusses current challenges, including false positives and rare cases of PSMA-negative tumors. Ongoing research explores replacing biopsy or MRI with PSMA PET in select patients. Today, PSMA PET is considered the standard imaging method in nearly all stages of prostate cancer. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40806]

Dr. Hao Nguyen presents focal therapy as a promising treatment option for carefully selected prostate cancer patients, especially those with intermediate-risk, localized disease. Unlike whole-gland treatments, focal therapy targets only the tumor while preserving healthy tissue, reducing the risk of side effects like urinary or sexual dysfunction. UCSF offers multiple approaches—high-intensity focused ultrasound, cryotherapy, and irreversible electroporation—selected based on tumor location and anatomy. Dr. Nguyen emphasizes the importance of precise imaging, MRI fusion biopsy, and genomic testing for patient selection and treatment planning. Early outcomes show encouraging results, with most patients avoiding surgery or radiation within two years and maintaining quality of life. While not yet standard first-line care, focal therapy is gaining traction through research and expert consensus. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40804]

Dr. Thomas Hope presents PSMA PET imaging as a transformative advancement in prostate cancer care. This technology uses a radioactive tracer to precisely detect cancer spread by targeting PSMA, a protein found on prostate cancer cells. It outperforms traditional bone and CT scans in sensitivity and accuracy, allowing for better staging and treatment planning. PSMA PET improves radiation therapy outcomes by revealing cancer in areas previously undetected. While multiple tracers exist, all FDA-approved options show similar performance, and accessibility is the key factor. Hope also discusses current challenges, including false positives and rare cases of PSMA-negative tumors. Ongoing research explores replacing biopsy or MRI with PSMA PET in select patients. Today, PSMA PET is considered the standard imaging method in nearly all stages of prostate cancer. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40806]

Dr. Thomas Hope presents PSMA PET imaging as a transformative advancement in prostate cancer care. This technology uses a radioactive tracer to precisely detect cancer spread by targeting PSMA, a protein found on prostate cancer cells. It outperforms traditional bone and CT scans in sensitivity and accuracy, allowing for better staging and treatment planning. PSMA PET improves radiation therapy outcomes by revealing cancer in areas previously undetected. While multiple tracers exist, all FDA-approved options show similar performance, and accessibility is the key factor. Hope also discusses current challenges, including false positives and rare cases of PSMA-negative tumors. Ongoing research explores replacing biopsy or MRI with PSMA PET in select patients. Today, PSMA PET is considered the standard imaging method in nearly all stages of prostate cancer. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40806]

Dr. Hao Nguyen presents focal therapy as a promising treatment option for carefully selected prostate cancer patients, especially those with intermediate-risk, localized disease. Unlike whole-gland treatments, focal therapy targets only the tumor while preserving healthy tissue, reducing the risk of side effects like urinary or sexual dysfunction. UCSF offers multiple approaches—high-intensity focused ultrasound, cryotherapy, and irreversible electroporation—selected based on tumor location and anatomy. Dr. Nguyen emphasizes the importance of precise imaging, MRI fusion biopsy, and genomic testing for patient selection and treatment planning. Early outcomes show encouraging results, with most patients avoiding surgery or radiation within two years and maintaining quality of life. While not yet standard first-line care, focal therapy is gaining traction through research and expert consensus. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40804]

Dr. Hao Nguyen presents focal therapy as a promising treatment option for carefully selected prostate cancer patients, especially those with intermediate-risk, localized disease. Unlike whole-gland treatments, focal therapy targets only the tumor while preserving healthy tissue, reducing the risk of side effects like urinary or sexual dysfunction. UCSF offers multiple approaches—high-intensity focused ultrasound, cryotherapy, and irreversible electroporation—selected based on tumor location and anatomy. Dr. Nguyen emphasizes the importance of precise imaging, MRI fusion biopsy, and genomic testing for patient selection and treatment planning. Early outcomes show encouraging results, with most patients avoiding surgery or radiation within two years and maintaining quality of life. While not yet standard first-line care, focal therapy is gaining traction through research and expert consensus. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40804]

UCSF's Dr. Rahul Aggarwal explains the role of clinical trials in advancing prostate cancer treatment and how trial design is evolving to match today's more personalized approaches. He highlights how UCSF has contributed to major prostate cancer therapies and emphasizes the importance of genetic and genomic testing in identifying suitable trials for each patient. Dr. Aggarwal explains the different trial phases, clarifies common myths—such as concerns about placebos—and stresses that trials are considered at every stage of disease. He also discusses efforts to improve access, affordability, and diversity in trial participation, including regional partnerships and digital matching tools. The talk encourages patients to be informed and proactive when considering clinical trials as part of their treatment plan. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40800]

UCSF's Dr. Rahul Aggarwal explains the role of clinical trials in advancing prostate cancer treatment and how trial design is evolving to match today's more personalized approaches. He highlights how UCSF has contributed to major prostate cancer therapies and emphasizes the importance of genetic and genomic testing in identifying suitable trials for each patient. Dr. Aggarwal explains the different trial phases, clarifies common myths—such as concerns about placebos—and stresses that trials are considered at every stage of disease. He also discusses efforts to improve access, affordability, and diversity in trial participation, including regional partnerships and digital matching tools. The talk encourages patients to be informed and proactive when considering clinical trials as part of their treatment plan. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40800]

UCSF's Dr. Rahul Aggarwal explains the role of clinical trials in advancing prostate cancer treatment and how trial design is evolving to match today's more personalized approaches. He highlights how UCSF has contributed to major prostate cancer therapies and emphasizes the importance of genetic and genomic testing in identifying suitable trials for each patient. Dr. Aggarwal explains the different trial phases, clarifies common myths—such as concerns about placebos—and stresses that trials are considered at every stage of disease. He also discusses efforts to improve access, affordability, and diversity in trial participation, including regional partnerships and digital matching tools. The talk encourages patients to be informed and proactive when considering clinical trials as part of their treatment plan. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40800]

UCSF's Dr. Rahul Aggarwal explains the role of clinical trials in advancing prostate cancer treatment and how trial design is evolving to match today's more personalized approaches. He highlights how UCSF has contributed to major prostate cancer therapies and emphasizes the importance of genetic and genomic testing in identifying suitable trials for each patient. Dr. Aggarwal explains the different trial phases, clarifies common myths—such as concerns about placebos—and stresses that trials are considered at every stage of disease. He also discusses efforts to improve access, affordability, and diversity in trial participation, including regional partnerships and digital matching tools. The talk encourages patients to be informed and proactive when considering clinical trials as part of their treatment plan. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40800]