Success Rates of Prostate Cancer Treatments
Know the success rate for cancer treatments. What are the treatment options? And how to improve the chances of success.
Written by Dr. Siri Nallapu
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 4th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men, especially those over the age of 50. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, you may have questions about treatment options and their success rates. However, prostate cancer is highly treatable, especially when detected early.
In this article, we’ll break down the different treatment options, their success rates, and what factors influence outcomes. We’ll also share tips on managing the condition and improving overall health during and after treatment.
What Are the Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer?
The treatment for prostate cancer depends on several factors, including:
The stage of cancer
How far has it spread
The aggressiveness Gleason score
The patient’s age and overall health
Here are the most common treatment options and their success rates:
1. Active Surveillance (Watchful Waiting)
Best for Early-stage, slow-growing prostate cancer.
Success Rate is High for low-risk cases, with 90%+ survival rates at 10 years.
How it works: Instead of immediate treatment, doctors monitor the cancer with regular PSA tests, biopsies, and imaging. Treatment is only started if the cancer progresses.
2. Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy)
Best for localised prostate cancer (confined to the prostate).
The Success Rate is about 90-95% success in removing cancer if caught early.
How it works: The prostate gland is surgically removed. Robotic-assisted surgery offers faster recovery.
3. Radiation Therapy
Best for the localised or locally advanced prostate cancer.
Success Rate: Around 85-90% success for early-stage cancer.
Types:
External Beam Radiation is are High-energy beam that targets cancer cells.
Brachytherapy involves Radioactive seeds that are implanted in the prostate.
4. Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy - ADT)
Best for: Advanced or metastatic prostate cancer.
Success Rate: Controls cancer growth but is not curative. Extends life expectancy in advanced cases.
How it works: Reduces testosterone levels, slowing cancer progression.
5. Chemotherapy
Best for Advanced prostate cancer that no longer responds to hormone therapy.
Success Rate is due to it helping manage symptoms and prolonging survival, but it does not cure cancer.
6. Immunotherapy & Targeted Therapy
Best for Advanced cases where other treatments fail.
Success Rate Varies, but new treatments like PARP inhibitors and CAR-T cell therapy show promise.
Consult Top oncologist for further advice
What Affects Treatment Success?
Several factors influence how well a treatment works:
Stage of Cancer: Early detection leads to higher success rates.
Gleason Score: Lower scores (6 or below) indicate less aggressive cancer.
PSA Levels: Lower PSA after treatment suggests better outcomes.
Overall Health: Younger, healthier patients often respond better to aggressive treatments.
How Can You Improve Your Chances of Success?
While medical treatments are crucial, lifestyle changes can also help:
Healthy Diet: Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; reduce red meat and processed foods.
Exercise Regularly: Helps reduce side effects of treatment and improves recovery.
Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol: Both can worsen cancer outcomes.
Regular Follow-ups: Keep up with doctor visits and PSA tests.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you experience symptoms like:
Frequent urination, especially at night
Weak urine flow
Blood in urine or semen
Pain in the pelvis or lower back
Final Thoughts
Prostate cancer treatment has high success rates, especially when detected early. With advancements in surgery, radiation, and new therapies, many men live long, healthy lives after treatment. Stay informed, follow medical advice, and maintain a healthy lifestyle for the best outcomes.
Consult Top oncologist for further advice
Consult Top oncologist for further advice
Dr Sunita Samleti
Oncologist
18 Years • M.D. (Pathology)- TN Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Mar 2005 M.B.B.S. Grant Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Oct 1999
Chinagadila
Apollo Hospitals Health City Unit, Chinagadila
Dr. Rupam Manna
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
4 Years • MBBS MD(RADIO THERAPY)
Barasat
Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat
Dr Gowshikk Rajkumar
Oncologist
10 Years • MBBS, DMRT, DNB in Radiation oncology
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. B Shravanthi Reddy
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
8 Years • MBBS, DNB(Radiation Oncology)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
Dr.sanchayan Mandal
Oncologist
17 Years • MBBS, DrNB( MEDICAL ONCOLOGY), DNB (RADIOTHERAPY),ECMO. PDCR. ASCO
Kolkata
Dr. Sanchayan Mandal Oncology Clinic, Kolkata
