Prostate cancer - active surveillance as a management option

Active surveillance, followed by delayed definitive treatment for those who develop evidence of significant cancer progression, is now a recognised management strategy for selected men with low risk prostate cancer.

This article summarises the role of active surveillance in the management of prostate cancer. It outlines the benefits of active surveillance and the indications for proceeding with curative treatments if required.

A considerable proportion of men with low grade prostate cancer on biopsy may never progress to higher stage disease or develop symptoms from their cancers. These patients are suitable for active surveillance under the care of a urologist. Active surveillance involves initial stringent observation of the prostate cancer, with inclusion of monitoring biopsies rather than immediate active treatment in the form of surgery or radiotherapy. With careful selection, about 70% of men will not require any intervention for at least 5 years. Men with low grade disease should be offered active surveillance as a treatment option and provided with information about the risks and benefits of this approach.