Movember: this month of November dedicated to prostate and testicular cancer. The most common cancer (16%) in Switzerland and the deadliest (8%) in men, but which can largely be cured if caught in time. This is the case of Jean-Pierre. This patient, operated about fifteen years ago at the Grangettes. Hirslanden Clinique des Grangettes has recently embarked on different techniques and treatments to avoid chemotherapy for patients.
At 65, Jean-Pierre can now fully enjoy life. This patient was cured of cancer about fifteen years ago. After a simple check-up with his doctor, he learns the sad news. A malignant tumor of the prostate.
“I discovered this, a bit by chance, thanks to a report”
Following a subject broadcast 9 months before the discovery of his illness, this 49-year-old patient at the time wanted to take a blood test. It was then that he discovered an aggressive and malignant tumor in the prostate. Prostate cancer concerns 16 percent of cancers detected each year in Switzerland. In Geneva, almost one in eight men will be confronted with it in their lifetime. Mortality is falling, but stands at almost 8% of deaths due to cancer.
A Da Vinci console to support surgeons
To make the diagnosis, a blood test is necessary, sometimes followed by an MRI. In this clinic, a group of specialists has been created in order to set up individualized care. It also offers new treatments and operating techniques. It is thanks to this robot surgeon named Da Vinci that this delicate operation becomes possible.
“Today, for me, is ancient history”
Taken care of quickly, the remission rates are encouraging. Thanks to rapid and immediate screening, Jean-Pierre still has many good years ahead of him. Despite these developments, each year in Switzerland, 6,000 to 7,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer.