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How is prostate cancer different depending on whether it's localized, locally advanced, or metastatic?
Prostate cancer can act in different ways. Some prostate cancer grows slowly and stays inside the prostate.
Prostate cancer can behave very differently from person to person.
Some prostate cancer grows slowly and stays only inside the prostate gland. This kind often does not cause serious health problems.
Other prostate cancer grows quickly and spreads to other parts of the body. Doctors call this spread metastatic cancer. This kind is more serious and usually needs more treatment.
Because of this, doctors look closely at whether the cancer has spread outside the prostate gland.
Surgery to remove the prostate may be an option in some cases. This depends on whether the cancer has spread outside the prostate.
Your treatment choices also depend on your age and your overall health. Your care team will explain what your test results mean for your situation.
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This page is educational, not medical advice. Talk with your care team about decisions that apply to you. If something feels urgent, contact your care team — for emergencies call your local emergency number.
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