The principle
For selected less aggressive localised cancers, organised monitoring can defer treatment while retaining the option to intervene if disease changes.
Who is it for?
Selection depends on biopsy findings, PSA, imaging and your overall situation. Discuss the decision with your team; one PSA value is not enough.
Follow-up programme
Follow-up involves planned appointments and tests. PSA, MRI and repeat biopsies may be included in an individual protocol.
Your role
Keeping this schedule matters. Report new symptoms between visits; inability to urinate is an emergency.
Two different approaches
Active surveillance retains the possibility of curative treatment. It differs from symptom-focused monitoring when care goals are different.
When to reconsider
Changing results prompt reassessment. A rising PSA does not, on its own, mean immediate surgery.
Benefits and burdens
This approach may avoid or delay treatment side effects, but requires repeated tests and can cause anxiety. Ask for a written schedule and the criteria for changing strategy.
Three questions to ask at your visit
- Which findings make this option suitable for me?
- What is the written schedule, and who do I contact if I miss a visit?
- Which results or changes would lead to a treatment discussion?
Explore this topic further
Continue with related explanations of how the body works and treatment options.