Watchful waiting

Watchful waiting means not having any treatment unless symptoms develop that show the cancerAbnormal, uncontrolled cell division resulting in a malignant tumour that may invade surrounding tissues or spread to distant parts of the body. is getting worse.

Watchful waiting is often recommended for older men, or those with other serious health problems. This is because the side effects of active treatment may be worse than the symptoms of the cancerAbnormal, uncontrolled cell division resulting in a malignant tumour that may invade surrounding tissues or spread to distant parts of the body..

Recommended if:

• You have early stage cancerAbnormal, uncontrolled cell division resulting in a malignant tumour that may invade surrounding tissues or spread to distant parts of the body. or a low GleasonA system used to assess the extent of abnormality of prostate cancer cells. score
• Your doctor will probably not perform any further tests unless problems arise.

Advantages of watchful waiting

• Suits men with existing health conditions for whom treatment could pose further problems
• Allows time to consider all options if unsure whether or not to have treatment
• No need for regular tests
• Unnecessary treatment and possible side effects are avoided
• You don't have to stay in hospital.

Disadvantages of watchful waiting

• You might feel that nothing is being done
• The cancerAbnormal, uncontrolled cell division resulting in a malignant tumour that may invade surrounding tissues or spread to distant parts of the body. can grow to a more advanced stage or spread

Needs commitment to careful and regular self-monitoring for symptoms.