Treatments

What are the treatments for early prostate cancer?'

Early cancers are dealt with in one of two ways: by watching, or by the radical approaches: radical prostatectomy, radical radiotherapy or high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU).

Although each may be equally effective, these treatments can have very different effects on a man's quality of life. So you have a part to play in making an informed choice.

There is one guideline which most doctors use when deciding which treatment to recommend: age. Generally doctors agree that a patient, under 70 years old, should have one of the radical treatments, rather than watchful waiting. This is because they are likely to live long enough for the cancer to grow and cause harm.

What is involved with the 'watching' approach?

This involves regular prostate check-ups in order to monitor the prostate cancer. As there is no active treatment - unless symptoms develop - there are no adverse side-effects to worry about. You will have to attend an outpatients clinic every 6-12 months for a PSA test and a rectal examination. The doctor will be looking for a rise in the PSA level or any change in your condition. If this happens you will be offered active treatment.