Understanding Prostate Cancer: Insights from Dr Martina Martins Favre, Radiologist FMH at Unilabs.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men. In recent times, early detection, as well as advancements in diagnostic imaging, have greatly improved treatment outcomes for prostate cancer patients. We spoke with Dr Martina Martins Favre, a leading radiologist at Unilabs in Geneva with extensive experience in prostate MRI, to learn more about the role of radiology in diagnosing and managing the disease.

What makes early diagnosis of prostate cancer so important?

Early diagnosis is vital because prostate cancer is highly treatable when detected at an early stage. The earlier we catch the cancer, the more options we have for effective treatments, and the better the outcomes for the patient. Many early-stage prostate cancers are asymptomatic, so routine screening is essential. Tools such as PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) tests, rectal touch and MRI scans are crucial in identifying cancers before they progress, especially in men over 50, or in those with a family history of prostate cancer.

How has radiology advanced the diagnosis and management of prostate cancer?

One of the most significant advancements in recent years is the development of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging MRI (mpMRI). This technology allows us to look at the prostate in detail, assessing not just the structure but also the cellular composition and blood flow within the gland. mpMRI helps us to determine whether a lesion is likely to be aggressive and guides us in selecting the most appropriate treatment path. It also reduces the need for unnecessary biopsies, as MRIs detect significant lesions.

At Unilabs, we’ve incorporated these advanced imaging techniques into our diagnostic processes, providing patients with more precise diagnoses and an individualised approach to care. When it comes to prostate cancer, we take a collaborative approach to patient treatment, leveraging specialist expertise from across our business in the fields of radiology, genetics, and pathology to achieve the best outcomes for patients.

Are there any recent innovations in prostate cancer imaging that stand out to you?

Yes, focal therapy is a new minimally invasive treatment that targets only one part of the prostate, preserving erector nerves and reducing the need for surgical treatment. For this prostate cancer treatment, we leverage MRI technology and work together with the urologist to plan the intervention. Once the treatment is complete, we perform a follow-up MRI. 

How is Artificial Intelligence (AI) being used to help to detect cancer?

We are starting to see the benefits of AI for prostate cancer diagnostics. Analysing prostate biopsies requires precision, and detecting, measuring, and characterising the malignancy of lesions for each biopsy slide is crucial. AI tools can also assist radiologists by analysing MRI scans and flagging suspicious areas that may be indicative of cancer. This can improve both the speed and accuracy of diagnoses, leading to more timely interventions.

What advice would you give men regarding prostate cancer?

My key advice is to be proactive about your health. Men aged over 50, or younger men with risk factors, like a family history of prostate cancer, should have regular check-ups and talk to their doctors about PSA testing and MRI screening options. Many men may not experience any symptoms in the early stages, so screening is the best way to catch the disease before it progresses. Early detection, combined with the latest imaging technologies, can make a significant difference in managing the disease.