Cancerbackup: Active surveillance

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Active surveillance for early (localised) prostate cancer

Active surveillance means that your doctors will keep a close eye on you to see if the cancer is growing significantly. You will usually have blood tests every 1-3 months to monitor your PSA levels and frequent digital rectal examinations, and will be asked if you have developed any new symptoms. You may also have prostate biopsies every few years.

If these regular tests show that the cancer is starting to grow your doctors will then recommend treatment intended to cure the cancer, such as surgery or radiotherapy. If your cancer is not growing or developing, it is safe to continue with active surveillance.


Content last reviewed: 01 July 2007
Page last modified: 07 October 2008

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