Prostate Restored
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio Pexels Logo Photo: Andrea Piacquadio

Are there any new treatments for prostate?

The FDA-approved drug, called Pluvicto (lutetium Lu 177 vipivotide tetraxetan), is a new radiation pharmaceutical that is administered through injection or infusion. The drug travels throughout the body and targets cancer cells with the PSMA biomarker, a protein found on most prostate cancer cells.

What is the most effective surgery for enlarged prostate?
What is the most effective surgery for enlarged prostate?

TURP is generally considered an option for men who have moderate to severe urinary problems that haven't responded to medication. While TURP has...

Read More »
Does an enlarged prostate return to normal?
Does an enlarged prostate return to normal?

While it's difficult to completely reverse an enlarged prostate, there are several treatments that can relieve symptoms, reduce the size of the...

Read More »

News_release

UC San Diego Health is the first hospital system in the region to offer a novel treatment option for patients with prostate cancer that has spread throughout the body and has not responded to other therapeutics. In 2004, upon Jim Duvall’s completion of service in the U.S. Army, college and a successful business career, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Shortly thereafter, he underwent surgery to treat the disease. However, three years later, it was discovered the cancer had spread to his bones. Duvall has gone through several treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation. “There is no magic potion to cure my cancer and my physicians were very clear about this, but I have two kids and four grandkids, and I want to hang out with them a little longer,” said Duvall. After managing prostate cancer for nearly 20 years, Duvall, age 80, transferred his care to UC San Diego Health. He was the first patient in the region to receive a new treatment for advanced prostate cancer.

“I was so grateful to be considered for this treatment,” said Duvall.

The FDA-approved drug, called Pluvicto (lutetium Lu 177 vipivotide tetraxetan), is a new radiation pharmaceutical that is administered through injection or infusion. The drug travels throughout the body and targets cancer cells with the PSMA biomarker, a protein found on most prostate cancer cells. Radiation is then released to damage and kill the cancer cells. The drug specifically targets progressive, PSMA positive, metastatic (cancer that has spread) castration-resistant prostate cancer. Studies show it can extend the lives of people with this aggressive form of prostate cancer, even in the late stages. “This is a groundbreaking clinical advancement for our prostate cancer patients, like Mr. Duvall. It is a significant step forward in the evolution of precision radioligand therapy for patients,” said Rana McKay, MD, medical oncologist at UC San Diego Health. “Although the treatment landscape for advanced prostate cancer continues to evolve, there is a high unmet need for additional treatment options for these patients. This treatment may help patients live longer, which is tremendous.” Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death for men in the United States. Men with prostate cancer have several options for fighting the disease, including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. However, if these treatments do not stop the progression of the cancer, there are few other options. “Without the knowledge, dedication and compassion of Dr. McKay and my entire medical team, I’m not sure I would be here today to share my story,” said Duvall.

How often should you take turmeric curcumin?
How often should you take turmeric curcumin?

The recommended turmeric dosage is between 150-250 mg of curcumin and 1000-1500 mg of turmeric root powder per day. This is a safe amount of...

Read More »
What happens if men apply turmeric?
What happens if men apply turmeric?

Amongst other suggested health benefits put forwards by studies, turmeric for men has shown to increase blood flow that is suggested, in turn, to...

Read More »

Treatments, such as chemotherapy, can come with many unpleasant side effects.

In contrast, the new drug targets PSMA, which is largely expressed on tumor cells. This can mean fewer side effects like nausea, vomiting and hair loss. “As the only academic medical center in the region, we are always excited to offer innovative treatments to our patients, particularly those who have exhausted other options,” said Christopher Kane, MD, urologist and CEO, UC San Diego Health Physician Group. “Advanced prostate cancer is challenging to treat, but survival rates have improved in recent years. We anticipate that this treatment will make a meaningful difference in our patients’ lives.” Duvall received his first dose of Pluvicto at UC San Diego Health in early September. In total, he will receive six doses set apart every six weeks. “Our nuclear medicine team is honored to be at the forefront of delivering theragnostic care. We look forward to continuing to bring emerging innovative diagnostic and treatment tools to best serve our patients,” said K. Elizabeth Hawk, MD, PHD, interim chief of nuclear medicine at UC San Diego Health. “The patients who have received this treatment have expressed excitement and gratitude for this significant advancement. It has given them renewed hope,” said Sindu Alexander MD, nuclear medicine physician at UC San Diego Health. Duvall is doing well and staying active. He walks four to five days a week and is living a quality life during his treatment. “There are not enough accolades for everyone involved in this new treatment. I truly feel like I will now be able to spend many more special moments with my family,” said Duvall. According to the 2022-2023 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” survey, UC San Diego Health is ranked 20th for Cancer, among the nation’s top 50 programs, out of more than 4,500 hospitals nationwide. Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in San Diego County, the highest possible rating for a U.S. cancer center.

What is the belly press thing for girls?
What is the belly press thing for girls?

She said: “Pressing down on a woman's lower stomach during sex can help stimulate their G-spot from the outside.” Her video has since been viewed...

Read More »
Does Flomax hurt your kidneys?
Does Flomax hurt your kidneys?

Your kidneys and liver clear tamsulosin from your body after you take a dose. If you have severe kidney or liver problems, your body might not be...

Read More »
Do you go to heaven if you are cremated?
Do you go to heaven if you are cremated?

No matter what a person's preference is, from the Christian perspective, cremation does not prevent one from going to Heaven. So there's no need to...

Read More »
What is the best vitamin to block DHT?
What is the best vitamin to block DHT?

The following vitamins accomplish this by explicitly focusing on blocking and decreasing DHT or by reducing the body's sensitivity to DHT. Vitamin...

Read More »