Prostate cancer

This Prostate Cancer course provides a detailed exploration of the diagnostic, treatment, and management processes for one of the most prevalent cancers affecting men. Delivered in three units, the course is designed to empower healthcare professionals with actionable knowledge to improve patient outcomes.

Unit 1: Diagnosis, PSA, and Overview
Learn the fundamentals of diagnosing prostate cancer, focusing on the role of PSA testing and digital rectal examinations. This unit covers the benefits and limitations of PSA screening, including false positives and the challenges of over-diagnosis. It explores the Gleason scoring system, risk stratification, and referral criteria to specialists. Practical guidance is offered for recognising patients at higher risk, including those with a family history or BRCA gene mutations, ensuring timely and accurate diagnoses.

Unit 2: Localised Prostate Cancer
This unit examines treatment modalities for localized prostate cancer, including surgery, radiotherapy, and active surveillance. Key topics include:
- Radical Prostatectomy: Techniques, risks, and the evolving role of robotic-assisted procedures.
- Radiotherapy: Applications of brachytherapy and external beam radiotherapy, with a focus on minimising biochemical recurrence.
- Active Surveillance: Criteria for monitoring low-risk patients to avoid over-treatment.
- Neoadjuvant and Adjuvant Therapies: Guidelines for androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and its role in high-risk cases. Through case studies, participants will learn to balance treatment efficacy with patient quality of life.

Unit 3: Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Explore the complexities of managing advanced and metastatic prostate cancer. This unit covers:
- Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT): Medical and surgical options, resistance mechanisms, and optimising treatment protocols.
- Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: Emerging therapies, including chemotherapy, targeted agents like abiraterone and enzalutamide, and immunotherapies.
- Bone Health and Supportive Care: Strategies for managing skeletal-related events and preserving bone density with agents such as zoledronic acid and denosumab.
- Rare Subtypes: Guidance on treating aggressive forms like small-cell neuroendocrine cancers. Participants will also gain insights into the psychological and cardiovascular impacts of treatment, ensuring holistic patient care.

This course equips healthcare professionals with the skills and knowledge to navigate the challenges of prostate cancer care. By addressing both medical and supportive aspects, it aims to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.