How to choose between active surveillance and surgery as suggested by my urologist?
Your physician and your care team will offer you the treatment they deem the most appropriate depending on your age, your health and the seriousness of your cancer. Among these treatments, you probably expect to have surgery or radiation. However, active surveillance is also another approach, still little known, mostly in cases of low-risk prostate cancer.
Low-Risk Cancer
We talk about a low-risk cancer when it is a small tumour contained within the prostate, and with a PSA blood test lower than 10. In most of low-risk prostate cancer cases, the tumour evolves slowly, and is consequently not a threat for the sick man’s life. In this way, an untreated low-risk cancer rarely cause death, especially if it is subject to active surveillance.
Active Surveillance
Since a low-risk prostate cancer represents very few dangers and complications, active surveillance is often preferred. In fact, surgery and radiation are not necessary treatments when the life is not threatened, all the more since they can cause major sexual, urinary, or bowel problems, besides requiring a recovery period.
Yet, active surveillance lets you continue your regular activities without worrying too much. You will have regular checkups, such as PSA test and rectal exam. If needed, you will also get a biopsy. This approach allows to monitor the tumour’s evolution. If the cancer becomes more risky, you will be able to start a treatment anytime.
Surgery or radiation
Surgery and radiation can be demanding on the physical plan, since these treatments cause many side effects. In this way, in case of low-risk prostate cancer, they are mainly offered to young or very healthy men, since they can recover more easily.
In any case, the most important thing remains taking the decision you deem is the best for you. To do so, you should discuss with your physician, so you will have every element you need in hand to choose in an informed way.
