The treatment of prostate cancer often requires the expertise of many medical specialists. These professionals should work as a team to treat your condition and support you in other ways. Depending on your own case, doctors you may see include:
- Urologist. A urologist is specially trained to treat problems affecting the urinary tract (kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra) and disorders of the male reproductive system.
- Urologic oncologist. This specialist diagnoses and treats cancers that affect the urinary tract and male reproductive organs. They do surgeries to treat prostate cancer as well as kidney, bladder, penis, and testicular cancer.
- Radiation oncologist. A radiation oncologist specializes in the use of radiation therapy to treat cancer. They develop the radiation treatment plan, monitor patients while they are receiving radiation therapy, and treat any side effects from the radiation.
- Medical oncologist. A medical oncologist specializes in treating cancer with medical therapies, such as chemotherapy and hormone therapy. Medical oncologists also handle the general medical problems that may arise during the disease.
Other medical specialists that may be involved in your care include:
- Oncology nurses. These are nurses who specialize in caring for patients with cancer.
- Oncology social worker. These patient advocates help you and your family deal with your illness both emotionally and on a practical level.
- Dietitians. Dietitians assist in managing nutrition related to cancer and treatment.
- Physical therapists. These health professionals are trained to use rehabilitation treatments to restore function and prevent disability following disease, injury, or loss of a body part.
- Occupational therapists. These therapists work with patients to help them improve the activities of daily living.
- Psychologists or counselors. Both professionals help patients and their families cope with cancer and treatment.
