Comprehensive Prostate Cancer Care in Walnut Creek
Why Choose Us
At the Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center, part of BASS Medical Group, our multidisciplinary team brings together experts in urology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. We provide comprehensive prostate cancer care—from screening and diagnosis to advanced treatment and survivorship—all within one coordinated network. Every patient receives a personalized treatment plan built around the latest technology, evidence-based medicine, and compassionate support.
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Understanding Prostate Cancer
The prostate is a small gland below the bladder that helps produce seminal fluid. Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the prostate and can vary from slow-growing, low-risk to aggressive, higher-risk disease. Many early-stage prostate cancers cause no symptoms; that’s why regular screening and risk assessment matter.
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- Risk increases for men over the age of 50, especially as they approach their 60s and 70s.
- Men with a father, brother, or son who has had prostate cancer face a higher likelihood of developing the disease.
- African American men are more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and have a higher risk of aggressive or advanced disease.
- Elevated PSA levels or an abnormal digital rectal exam (DRE) may indicate the need for additional testing or earlier screening.
Screening & Diagnosis
When to consider screening
Screening generally begins after a risk discussion with your clinician—often around ages 45–50 (earlier for men at higher risk, such as those with family history or Black men). Screening methods include a PSA blood test and, when appropriate, a digital rectal exam (DRE). Abnormal results don’t always mean cancer, but they do warrant further evaluation.
How we diagnose and stage disease
- Multiparametric MRI to assess suspicious areas
- Targeted and/or systematic prostate biopsy (often MRI-fusion guided)
- Gleason score / Grade Group to describe how cells look under the microscope
- Staging work-up (imaging when indicated) to evaluate spread
What to expect at our center
We explain each step in plain language, review your Gleason/Grade Group and risk category, and outline whether active surveillance, surgery, radiation, or systemic therapy fits your goals.
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Personalized Treatment Options
By risk and personal goals
Your plan is tailored to risk level (low, favorable/unfavorable intermediate, high, very high), overall health, and preferences. We discuss benefits, side effects, and expected outcomes for each option.
Active Surveillance (low-risk disease)
For certain low-risk cancers, active surveillance avoids or delays immediate treatment while closely monitoring with PSA, MRI, and periodic biopsies. The goal is to treat only if needed.
Surgery / Robotic Prostatectomy
Surgical removal of the prostate can be appropriate for localized disease. We coordinate with urologic surgery programs and provide pre- and post-operative support, including rehab resources for urinary recovery and sexual health.
Radiation Therapy
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Non-invasive treatment that targets the prostate with precision; may include image guidance and motion management.
- MRI-Guided Radiotherapy (where available): Enhances soft-tissue visualization for pinpoint accuracy and reduced exposure to nearby organs.
- Brachytherapy (HDR/seed implants): Places radiation inside or near the prostate, delivering high doses to the tumor while sparing surrounding tissue.
Radiation Therapy
- Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy): Lowers testosterone that fuels prostate cancer growth; often combined with radiation for intermediate- or high-risk disease.
- Advanced/Metastatic Options: May include next-generation hormonal agents, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or immunotherapy as appropriate.
Clinical Trials & Emerging Therapies
Eligible patients may access innovative therapies through our Clinical Trials program—ask your physician or visit our Clinical Trials page.
Side Effects & Quality of Life
When to consider screening
Side effects depend on your treatment approach and baseline health. We focus on prevention, counseling, and early intervention to preserve quality of life.
Potential side effects
- Urinary changes: urgency, frequency, weak stream, incontinence (temporary or persistent)
- Sexual function: erectile dysfunction risk varies by treatment and age; recovery plans available
- Bowel changes: urgency, diarrhea, rectal irritation (more common with radiation)
- Systemic effects: fatigue, hot flashes, metabolic changes with hormone therapy
How we help:
- Pre-hab and pelvic floor therapy resources
- Medication and supportive interventions to manage symptoms
- Nurse navigator for education and coordination
- Lifestyle guidance (nutrition, exercise) to support recovery
We explain each step in plain language, review your Gleason/Grade Group and risk category, and outline whether active surveillance, surgery, radiation, or systemic therapy fits your goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does my Gleason score (Grade Group) mean?
It indicates how abnormal the cancer cells look under a microscope and helps estimate how quickly the cancer may grow or spread. We use it—along with PSA, MRI, and staging—to guide treatment decisions.
Can I choose active surveillance?
Many low-risk patients can safely begin with active surveillance and postpone or avoid treatment. We’ll discuss your risk category and monitoring plan.
How likely is my cancer to spread?
That depends on your risk category, tumor features, and imaging. We’ll review your case in detail and explain your prognosis and options.
What side effects should I expect?
Side effects vary by treatment. We’ll outline your individual risk—and how we’ll prevent, monitor, and treat side effects quickly.
Will treatment affect sexual function or fertility?
It can. We discuss strategies to preserve function and offer fertility counseling or sperm banking options when appropriate.
Do you offer clinical trials?
Yes—ask your provider or visit our Clinical Trials page to learn about current opportunities.
Get in touch with Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center
We’re here to help with all your cancer care needs — whether you’re ready to schedule, have questions, or just need guidance. Reach out today.