Prostate Cancer

Watchful Waiting

Watchful waiting involves waiting and watching for new signs or symptoms by having regular blood tests, rectal exams and occasional biopsies. Now that blood tests can detect prostate cancer at a very early stage, more men are considering this treatment option.

For men in their 70s or older or in poor health and where the cancer is small and slow growing, watchful waiting might be an option. Chances are good that without any form of treatment, men will live 10 more years without the cancer spreading, or without it causing problems. For men who are healthy and under 70, watchful waiting may be less appropriate. The cancer has more years to grow in younger individuals and might eventually reach the point where it needs additional treatment. The cancer cells could also unexpectedly become aggressive and spread so much that a cure becomes difficult or impossible.