Monitoring for prostate cancer

Targeted treatments are medicines designed to act on specific features of cancer cells. Instead of affecting many cells in the body (like chemotherapy), they focus on particular changes inside the cancer cells.

This means they work in a more precise way, although side effects still occur.

These treatments are not used as the main treatment for localised prostate cancer.

Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, regardless of how advanced the cancer is. It does not mean that cancer treatment has stopped - it can be given alongside treatments such as:

• Hormone therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Radiopharmaceutical therapy
• Other treatments for advanced prostate cancer

Palliative care can start as soon as symptoms appear or when additional support is needed, even if curative treatments are still being used. For some men, palliative care may continue for many years.

The aim is to help you feel as well as possible for as long as possible.

This chapter contains general information about prostate cancer treatments. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.

The development of this chapter was funded by Ferring Pharmaceuticals. Its content has been independently developed and approved by the EAU Patient Office.

Last updated: May 2025