Prostrate cancer treatment.

I am a fit and well 77yr old, a few years ago had a negative biopsy,a year later due to raised psa had a second biopsy and give me a Gleason score of 3+3 T1 . An mri scan showed a small increase in liaison in my prostrate and my psa is still raised. I have the option of radiotherapy. Should I stay on watchful waiting/ active surveillance or go for treatment. I am at the moment fit and well.

  • Hello Rontug and thanks for your post,

    I can understand when you are given a choice as to whether to have treatment or not it can be a hard decision.

    It is difficult for the nurses here to give an opinion as it is really only you who can make this decision with the help of your doctors.

    You may find it helpful to read the information written by Prostate Cancer UK about Watchful Waiting. If you decide to continue with watchful waiting it is important to find out how you will continue to be monitored and if you decide to change your mind at any time then you can proceed with some treatment.

    We have some information on our website about treatment options for prostate cancer. If the doctors felt that you definitely needed treatment straight away they would have recommended it but when they leave the decision for you to make it can be very hard to make that decision. It is really how comfortable you feel not having treatment and whether it is going to make you feel very unsettled waiting for the results of any tests that you may have.

    There is a charity called Tackle. They are a charity that enables you to join a support group or start one yourself. You may find it helpful to meet up online or in person with others in a similar situation.

    You have posted in 'ask the nurses' but if you post on another thread or start your own in another category you may find there are others facing a similar situation.

    If you would like to talk things through with one of the helpline nurses then you are welcome to give us a call.

    The number to ring is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine

  • Cathrine thank you for your reply,I am trying to gain as much knowledge so I can make a informed decision, (so much contradictory information) I do realize it’s my decision, your reply has helped me a lot. Thanking you verymuch