Skip to main content

Prostate Cancer Vaccine a Reality in Ireland

Irish researchers have developed a DNA-based vaccine that destroys secondary prostate cancer in animals. The UCC research published today occurred in Cork, Ireland, where statistics reveal higher incidences and higher death rates than in the UK. Secondary prostate cancer is recognized when cancer cells break off and enter different areas of the body, the vaccine was able to destroy the migrated cancer cells.

Statistics reveal that 192,280 American men will be diagnosed this year and 27,360 American men will die from prostate cancer. Surgery, radio and hormone therapy are the current treatments for localized prostate cancer (stage I and II) but the vaccine is revealing results for later stages, after the cancer has already spread to different parts of the body.

Once prostate cancer developed past stage 1 and 11, and treatments had already taken place, the vaccine migrated to other parts of the body and destroyed the secondary cancer cells. The study's results are revolutionary after numerous other studies have recently taken place regarding prostate cancer diagnosis risks and prostate cancer treatment risks.

Prostate cancer symptoms initially begin with frequent urination, difficultly starting or stopping urine, a weak or interrupted stream, pain during urination or ejaculation and blood in urine or semen. These occur when the cancer creates blockages in the prostate and surrounding tissues. Advanced prostate cancer symptoms escalate to chronic pain in the lower back, pelvic, rib and thigh region, weight loss, fatigue, vomiting and swelling of the lower extremities. (WebMD)

Several tests are used to diagnose prostate cancer. Effective prostate cancer screening tools include a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), which should take place for every man 50 years and older or a Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS), which measures the prostate's size and visually identifies tumors.

Other ways of detecting prostate cancer are by taking blood tests that measure the levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP). These tests are used to help a physician confirm or eliminate the need for further testing.

Prostate cancer treatment is extensive. Treatment options typical include medical treatment (such as hormone therapy), radiation therapy, surgical treatment and natural treatment. Support for the emotional drawbacks and counseling is also available, specifically for newly diagnosed patients are at risk.

Written by Amy Munday
Huliq.com

Comment and add to the story without registration, but keep the comments meaningful please. Links are not accepted.