Active surveillance of prostate cancer leads to improved quality of life

the Oncology Nurse Advisor take:

Prostate cancer is usually a slow-growing cancer. As a result, many men can opt to delay or avoid undergoing treatment. The process, referred to as active surveillance, allows men with prostate cancer to delay or avoid the side effects of its treatment as well.

Although the side effects of prostate cancer treatment can affect quality of life, the impact active surveillance has on quality of life is questionable. In this study, researchers found 10 previous studies that examined quality of life and other psychological issues related to men coping with prostate cancer.

The studies included 966 men with prostate cancer, all of whom chose active surveillance over aggressive treatment.

The results of this review show that quality of life scores for men who chose active surveillance were similar to the scores for men who chose surgery. Anxiety, depression, and general distress scores also were not worse in the active surveillance group.

The researchers conclude that although men who opt for active surveillance do not experience worse quality of life, they should still be assessed for potential problems and offered support as needed.