Dad stage 4 prostate

Hi, my dad has stage 4 prostate cancer which is now in his bones. He has had surgery, radiotherapy, and hormone treatment which now isn't working. He has started Radium 233 therapy.

Is Radium 233 purely for pain relief or for increasing life expectancy? He is very private and hasn't told us the prognosis or if the doctor has given him a timescale for the inevitable. I know everyone is differrent, but are we looking at a matter of months?

  • Welcome to Cancer Chat, Yljls.

    It sounds like your dad has been through a great deal already, with surgery, radiotherapy and hormone treatment, and it is understandable that you are now looking for some clarity as he starts this new treatment, especially when he prefers to keep things private and hasn't shared much about his prognosis.

    Many families on here have found themselves in a similar position, caring deeply but not having the full picture, and that not knowing can be its own kind of hard to carry. I do hope other members here will share their own experiences with you soon, as it can help to hear from others who have been on a similar journey with a parent.

    On a practical note, we have a page on our website with more information on what Radium 223 involves, which might be useful if you feel like having a read. As for the questions around timescale and his individual outlook, these would be best discussed with his medical team, as they know his case in detail and will be able to give you the clarity you are looking for.

    It might also help to speak with someone directly, so do bear in mind that our team of nurses are available on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, if that would be useful.

    I hope this helps.

    All the best to you and your family,

    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator