Watchful Waiting and Active Surveillance

What Is Watchful Waiting and Active Surveillance

It is estimated that approximately one in nine American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer sometime in their lifetime. When dealing with prostate cancer, you might hear the terms “watchful waiting” and “active surveillance.” These are strategies for managing prostate cancer without immediate treatment, but they have different goals and approaches.

Watchful Waiting

Watchful waiting is a less intensive approach. It’s typically recommended for older men or those with other serious health conditions for whom the risks and side effects of prostate cancer treatment might outweigh the benefits. With watchful waiting, the goal is to monitor the cancer and manage any symptoms if and when they arise. This approach doesn’t involve regular, intensive testing. Still, you’ll have periodic check-ups, and if symptoms of prostate cancer start to affect your quality of life, then treatment options will be considered to manage those symptoms.

Active Surveillance

Active surveillance, on the other hand, is a more proactive approach. It’s usually recommended for men with low-risk, early-stage prostate cancer that is unlikely to grow or spread quickly. The aim here is to closely monitor the cancer for any signs of progression, with the intention of starting treatment if the cancer shows signs of becoming more aggressive. This involves regular check-ups, including PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood tests, digital rectal exams (DRE), and sometimes biopsies. The idea is to catch any changes early so that treatment can begin at a point where it’s most likely effective, but still avoid the side effects of treatments like surgery or radiation.

Both approaches recognize that not all prostate cancers are immediately life-threatening, and treatment can have significant side effects. The decision between watchful waiting and active surveillance depends on various factors, including your age, overall health, the stage and grade of your cancer, and your personal preferences. It’s important to have a detailed discussion with your doctor about the best approach for your specific situation.Bottom of Form