BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with nearly 200,000 new cases each year.

Men faced with prostate cancer have multiple treatment options, including surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy. And where they go for treatment may influence the type of care they receive.

In a new study, doctors from the University of California at San Diego analyzed hundreds of records of men treated for prostate cancer. They found patients who went to public hospitals were more likely to receive surgery, while those treated in private centers more often received radiation and hormone therapy.

Experts said that -- in many cases -- the doctors' recommendations are guided by finances -- not superior care.

Public hospitals are more likely to own a surgical robot, and thus men are advised to seek surgery. Doctors at private centers often own a stake in radiation clinics, so they tend to refer patients there.

Studies have shown both surgery and radiation have benefits -- but also lasting side effects -- so men should always seek a second opinion when deciding on their course of treatment.