What treatment did you choose for Stage IIB prostate cancer?

Facing a Stage IIB prostate cancer diagnosis and weighing treatment options can feel overwhelming, but connecting with others who've navigated similar decisions can provide valuable insights and support. Many community members have shared their experiences with radiation therapy, surgery, and active surveillance, discussing factors like their age, overall health, potential side effects, and personal priorities that influenced their choices. This community is a great place to learn from others' journeys and find the support needed during this important decision-making process.

Hey Joseph! I was diagnosed on December 19 with the same, stage IIB. It is localized to the prostate which is key when it comes to treatment options. I have met with the Mayo Clinic team, and will be having a second consultation with Cleveland Clinic soon(required by my company insurance). For me, I want to have at least two opinions, and I suspect they will have the same result. I am 58, in good health and I will be choosing surgery. My reasoning comes down to what if the cancer comes back in the future; what options will I have. If I have radiation now, and cancer comes back in 10 years(hypothetically), then surgery will pretty much be off the table. This leaves me with radiation, although this may be limited or no longer an option; or chemotherapy. Things I am doing now for better results and recovery based talking with my care team: 1. Lose weight. I am a bigger guy and the urologist’s have said losing weight is the key focus for me before surgery. 2. Exercise and start kegel exercises. This will help with a quicker post operative recovery. 3. Maintain a positive attitude and be proactive. Since being initially being diagnosed I have had MRI, biopsy, CT and Bone scan and PSMA PET scan as well as one surgical consult. One last item. Make sure you ask what your treatment decision timeframe is. For me, I was told that I should not wait past June. If the cancer gets outside the prostate then surgery most likely will not be an option. I hope this helps.