The Prostate Cancer Charity, the largest and most comprehensive charity in the UK focused on prostate cancer, recently included a 4-page detailed overview of HIFU treatment for localized prostate cancer in its widely distributed Prostate News publication. Published twice a year both in print and online, Prostate News is available to anyone seeking information about prostate cancer, its treatment and its effect on quality of life.

The July 2006 issue (linked for download at right) includes several articles relevant to the growth of HIFU therapy in the UK and in the broader European market.

The HIFU pullout section identifies HIFU as a promising new treatment choice for both first indication and salvage treatment with lower side effects compared to traditional therapies. Offering good outcomes to date and rapid results in PSA reduction, the article describes the therapy and clearly identifies the side effect profile to help men consider this therapy against other choices.

The article includes a detailed testimonial from a patient who underwent Ablatherm-HIFU treatment at Guy's Hospital London. He selected HIFU after considering the less intrusive procedure than surgery and quick recovery offered by the Ablatherm-HIFU. Today he is doing very well and pleased with the outcomes of his experience.

Also provided is a description from Declan Cahill of Guy's Hospital identifying Ablatherm-HIFU treatment as filling key gaps in coverage by traditional therapies as well as being easy to learn and integrate into the treatment regimen.

In addition, the issue highlights articles suggesting men are often not given complete information on treatment options or quality of life concerns that may alter their treatment decisions. EDAP's ongoing education and outreach efforts aim to address this directly through both patient and medical channels helping men and their families more fully understand the treatment options and benefits as they make these important decisions.

Articles also highlighted the risks of impotence and incontinence associated with traditional therapies, as well as their resulting effects on the patient's spouse or partner. Again, a more fully informed patient can better evaluate his treatment options and select not only the best chance of a cure, but also the option that balances quality of life preservation – clearly an increasing factor in many considerations today.