After Gary was referred to a urologist and underwent a prostate biopsy, he was met with unsettling news: one of his biopsy samples showed a Gleason score of 4+4 = 8. A Gleason score of 8 typically indicates a more aggressive form of the disease, signaling that radical forms of treatment might be needed, like surgery, radiation, or a combination. Gary was shocked and concerned after hearing this news.

His urologist initially recommended surgery, but Gary felt he needed more information to base his treatment decision on. Seeking a second opinion, he met with another urologist who recommended a more invasive approach including a complete prostatectomy, radiation, and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Gary was frightened by this treatment plan because he had heard about the potential side effects of ADT, and wanted to avoid it if he could.

“I was confused at that point” Gary recalled. “One surgeon is saying surgery, and another one is saying they’d take half my body away.  I still felt uncomfortable making the decision with the information that I had.”

Gary’s search for more information continued until he learned about the Prolaris Prostate Cancer Prognostic Test saying, “this genetic test could tell me exactly what I need to do and confirm my treatment decision.”

When Gary received his Prolaris results, he felt a wave of relief wash over him. The Prolaris test recommended a single form of therapy to treat his cancer, allowing him to avoid additional therapy like ADT, and it’s associated side effects. For the first time since his diagnosis, Gary felt a sense of control and confidence in his treatment decision.

Gary’s story is an example of the importance of making informed decisions when it comes to your health. In the face of a prostate cancer diagnosis, Gary’s determination to seek out more information led him to Prolaris testing, bringing him the clarity he needed.

If you have questions about Prolaris testing for prostate cancer, please reach out to [email protected].

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