Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer begins in the prostate, a small gland that is part of the male reproductive system. The tumor typically grows slowly, but sometimes can be aggressive and spread quickly beyond the gland. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men in the U.S., yet with early diagnosis and the right care, many men continue to live long, fulfilling, and healthy lives.
At the Cancer Center of Southern California, we provide advanced prostate cancer care with a personalized multidisciplinary approach. With same-week appointments for diagnosis and second opinions, we help you take the next step in your care without delay.
Call us at 310-552-9999 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation today.
Understanding Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
Early-stage prostate cancer typically causes no symptoms, which is why routine screening is so important. When symptoms do appear, they may resemble benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or urinary conditions.
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate (especially at night)
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Difficulty starting or maintaining urination
- Pain or burning with urination
- Blood in urine or semen
- Erectile dysfunction or painful ejaculation
If prostate cancer spreads, symptoms may include fatigue, persistent pain in the back or hips, loss of bladder or bowel control, or kidney problems due to obstruction.
Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
We prioritize fast access to testing and consultations, so you are not left waiting months for answers. Diagnosis may include:
- PSA blood test to detect elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen
- MRI imaging to assess tumor size and spread
- Prostate biopsy with pathology review for confirmation
- PET scans for advanced disease staging
- Molecular & genetic testing to guide targeted therapies
Seek a Second Opinion
Many men come to us after being told they have limited treatment options. A second opinion can provide new clarity and treatment opportunities. Our oncologists have decades of experience managing complex and advanced-stage prostate cancer.
A second opinion can help:
- Confirm your diagnosis and staging
- Reevaluate your prognosis
- Explore novel therapies and clinical trials
- Review quality-of-life considerationsÂ
- Help manage the side effects of therapies
How We Build Your Treatment Plan
We collaborate with oncologists, urologists, pathologists, radiation specialists, and supportive care providers, including experts from UCLA, USC, and Cedars-Sinai.
We focus on maintaining your quality of life alongside cancer control, with supportive care to reduce side effects and improve treatment tolerance.
Plans are individualized, combining established treatments with innovative options, such as immunotherapy, hormone therapy, focal therapy, and clinical trial access.
Cancer Research Leadership
Our founder, Dr. Sant P. Chawla, trained at MD Anderson and has led the cancer program at Cedars-Sinai before establishing the Cancer Center of Southern California. With 30+ years of clinical experience, he has advanced cancer research to improve patient care and outcomes, and continues to lead national and investigator-initiated clinical trials.
Our center is recognized as a top enroller in many national trials, often outpacing large universities. We also provide access to compassionate use INDs (single-patient access) for people who are ineligible for standard trials.
Types of Prostate Cancer We Treat
Most men diagnosed with prostate cancer have adenocarcinoma, which begins in the glandular cells of the prostate. Less common but important types we also treat include:
A rare, aggressive form that often spreads quickly and requires specialized treatment.
Originates in the urethra or bladder lining and can extend into the prostate.Â
Uncommon cancers that grow rapidly and behave differently than typical prostate cancers.
Extremely rare cancers that develop in the connective tissues of the prostate.
Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer
Your treatment plan depends on the cancer’s stage, grade, and your overall health. Options may include:
- Active Surveillance
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone Therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Focal Therapy (Uses heat, cold, or other energy to destroy tumor cells)
- Surgery
- Clinical Trials
Access Groundbreaking Clinical Trials
Clinical trials provide you with opportunities to access promising therapies not yet widely available.
At our center, we offer:
- Enrollment in leading clinical trials (including for HMO and Kaiser patients)
- Support with insurance approvals and pharma-based sponsorship
- Travel and lodging assistance for trial participation through sponsors
- Compassionate use INDs for patients ineligible for trials
Prostate Cancer Treatment in Southern California
At the Cancer Center of Southern California, we deliver advanced, compassionate care for prostate cancer. Our internationally recognized oncologists specialize in leading drug therapies to achieve the best possible outcomes.
For appointments, please call us at 310-552-9999 or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. Many prostate cancers grow very slowly. For low-risk cases, active surveillance with regular monitoring may be a safe option.
Temporary urinary leakage is common after surgery or radiation, but most men regain control with time. Pelvic floor exercises and medical support can speed recovery.
Yes, advanced prostate cancer can spread to bones and lymph nodes. If this happens, treatment through radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or newer targeted therapies can help control the disease.
Follow-up usually includes regular PSA blood tests and periodic imaging, especially in the first few years. The frequency depends on your treatment type and risk level.
