Prostate cancer affects about one in eight men throughout their lifetime. In New York City, it is the second-most common form of cancer, with Black men, men aged 40 and older, and those with a family history of prostate cancer facing the highest risk. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related death for men in the United States. For prostate cancer at all stages, patients have more options for effective treatment of their specific disease state than anywhere else in the borough.
At the Maimonides Cancer Center and Prostate Center we utilize multiple treatments for metastatic prostate cancer that extend men’s lives by years. In the radiation oncology department we administer targeted radiosurgery for metastatic disease and also utilize injectable radiation. Xofigo and Pluvicto are the two agents we use. Hundreds of doses of both have been administered successfully with little side effects.
First in Brooklyn to administer Pluvicto targeted prostate cancer therapy
Offered only at advanced radiation oncology practices, Pluvicto is a radiopharmaceutical treatment used to treat PSMA-positive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. The drug differs from chemotherapy; it targets PSMA-positive cancer cells directly through a prostate-specific membrane target.
Pluvicto attaches to the prostate-specific membrane target, thus delivering a high dose of radiation directly to these PSMA-positive cancer cells. Pluvicto does not target healthy cells, as they lack the prostate-specific membrane target, thus minimizing or eliminating radiation dose to normal cells. This can result in fewer side effects like nausea, vomiting, and hair loss, which are common with chemotherapy. As a matter of fact, many patients do not have any perceptible side effects. The treatment is administered through a series of six intravenous injections.
“This treatment has been proven to extend life for patients who are diagnosed as having metastatic prostate cancer,” said James Butler, MD, Radiation Oncology Program Director at Maimonides. “Previously, this medicine is approved for patients who have progressed on hormone therapy as well as chemotherapy, but can now be used for patients instead of/before going to chemotherapy.”
Prostate cancer team brings experience, expertise to administration of new treatment
As Brooklyn’s only full-service, dedicated prostate cancer care center, Maimonides Prostate Center has proven time and time again that we are uniquely suited to bring the borough this lifesaving care.
“We have much experience with Pluvicto and have had many patients have good outcomes,” said David Berlach, MD, Chair of Radiation Oncology at Maimonides Cancer Center.
Brooklyn patients have access to all treatment options for prostate cancer
Prior to the Maimonides Prostate Center’s establishment, clinicians in Brooklyn referred patients to other cancer care centers, none of which are located in Brooklyn. Traveling far from home is often not an option or proves a great hardship for many patients. We were the first in Brooklyn to offer Pluvicto. After administering this drug hundreds of times Maimonides has made this treatment more accessible for those who need it the most in Brooklyn.
“Patients diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer in Brooklyn have all treatment options available to them here at Maimonides Prostate Cancer Center,” said Dr. Butler. “Pluvicto is one of our great success stories.”
To refer a patient to Maimonides Prostate Center, call 718-283-7770 or visit our webpage.
