If these tests reveal the cancer is changing or progressing, you can then make a decision about further treatment. Active surveillanceĪctive surveillance aims to avoid unnecessary treatment of harmless cancers while still providing timely treatment for those who need it.Īctive surveillance involves having regular PSA tests, MRI scans and sometimes biopsies to ensure any signs of progression are found as early as possible. Watchful waiting may also be recommended if your general health means you're unable to receive any form of treatment. If the cancer is in its early stages and not causing symptoms, you may decide to delay treatment and wait to see if any symptoms of progressive cancer develop. Watchful waiting is often recommended for older men when it's unlikely the cancer will affect their natural lifespan. Watchful waiting and active surveillance are different approaches to keeping an eye on the cancer and starting treatment only if it shows signs of getting worse or causing symptoms. Cancer Research UK: Prostate cancer risk groups and the Cambridge Prognostic Group (CPG).If prostate cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, the chances of survival are generally good. The risk group of the cancer will help determine which types of treatments will be necessary. Prostate cancer can be categorised into one of 5 risk groups in the Cambridge Prognostic Group (CPG).ĭoctors will look at the Grade Group (also called the Gleason score), prostate specific antigen (PSA) level and tumour stage to decide which CPG group the prostate cancer is. If you have side effects from treatment, you should be referred to specialist services (such as continence services) to help stop or ease these side effects. You should also be told about any clinical trials you may be eligible for. You should be able to talk with a named specialist nurse about treatment options and possible side effects to help you make a decision. Your MDT will be able to recommend what they feel are the best treatment options, but ultimately the decision is yours. whether the cancer has spread to other parts of your body.When deciding what treatment is best for you, your doctors will consider: You may also have access to clinical psychology support. Other members may include physiotherapists, dietitians and occupational therapists. The team often consists of specialist cancer surgeons, oncologists (radiotherapy and chemotherapy specialists), radiologists, pathologists, radiographers and specialist nurses. This is a team of specialists who work together to provide the best care and treatment. People with cancer should be cared for by a multidisciplinary team (MDT). Sometimes, if the cancer has already spread, the aim is not to cure it but to prolong life and delay symptoms. When treatment is necessary, the aim is to cure or control the disease so it affects everyday life as little as possible and does not shorten life expectancy.
For many people with prostate cancer, no treatment will be necessary. Treatment for prostate cancer will depend on your individual circumstances.
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