Prostate Cancer: Is Watchful Waiting a Viable Alternative?

Prostate cancer, unlike most other types of cancer, is usually a slow-growing cancer. Most men over the age of seventy with prostate cancer will probably die of something else. But since my PSA had doubled from 4.5 to 9.1 in one year, watchful waiting was not an option.

I am a Vietnam Veteran and the Veterans Administration assumes that I was exposed to Agent Orange. Agent orange was used in Vietnam as a defoliant and exposure to it causes a wide range of nasty diseases, prostate cancer being one of them. I will discuss this more in another article.

Watchful waiting may also be called expectant management, observation, and/or active surveillance. What exactly does watchful waiting mean? Well, what it doesn’t mean is ignoring the warning signs of a high PSA. What it means is working with your doctor to establish a protocol that includes regular monitoring of your PSA.

Some doctors may prefer to closely monitor your prostate, and some may describe a less intensive approach. Using a variety of methods, such as PSA blood tests, digital rectal exams, biopsies, and ultrasounds, it is possible to carefully monitor your cancer and take action if there is a change in your test results.

I should point out here that, like most men, my prostate and the idea of ​​being constantly examined did not appeal to me. After all, we are talking about the most intimate part of the male anatomy. With this being the case, it’s critical to find a doctor you feel comfortable with and who is willing to answer your questions and discuss all your options.

With active surveillance or watchful waiting, only men whose cancer is growing will be treated. For men with lower PSAs, this means avoiding the many side effects of aggressive procedures like surgery. Of course, if you go the watchful waiting route, there is a danger of the cancer spreading. If this happens, your treatment options may be limited.

Older men, especially those with other serious health problems, watchmen are a viable alternative. But for younger men who are in good health and have many years ahead of them, a more aggressive treatment plan is probably the best option.

Whichever option you choose, watchful waiting or more aggressive intervention, keep these points in mind. First, unless your cancer is in an advanced stage when it is detected, you have time to carefully consider your opinions. Second, find a doctor you feel comfortable with and trust. Third, consider all options, and if watchful waiting is for you, follow your doctor’s advice and be sure to check your PSA on a regular schedule.