FULLERTON, Calif. — Second to skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States.

Traditional treatments include chemotherapy and hormone therapies. But a recently FDA-approved, nuclear-based medicine that used to only be available overseas is giving hope to patients.

Barry McKinely, 77, was first diagnosed with prostate cancer about seven years ago. He said his first treatment lasted for about six years, but just last year, his cancer came back. He’s now being treated with six doses of what’s called Pluvicto.

Providence St. Jude Crosson Cancer Institute’s Dr. Yung Lyou said the nuclear-based medicines are like a smart missile or bomb.

“It delivers a radioactive payload that will just kill the prostate cancer cells that are in your body," said the medical oncologist. That means the healthy cells are spared.

Lyou said reported side effects are minimal and the outcomes are far superior compared to traditional chemotherapy or hormone therapies. He calls Pluvicto a “game changer.” It does make patients radioactive for a few days following the treatment, and Lyou said patients are told to avoid people, pets and public transportation.

McKinley said he’s blessed and lucky to be receiving the treatment to give him more time to spend with his seven grandchildren and his beautiful wife. He also jokes that now, he may outlive his money.