What is active surveillance?
For selected people, planned monitoring may be appropriate instead of immediate treatment. The aim is to preserve the opportunity for curative treatment if needed while delaying or avoiding the adverse effects of early intervention. Active surveillance is an organised care plan, not the absence of care. [1, 2]
What monitoring may involve
The plan can include PSA measurements, clinical review, MRI and repeat biopsy where appropriate. A single change in PSA does not determine the whole decision. Changes are assessed with other findings to guide further investigation or discussion about treatment. Knowing the purpose of each scheduled test makes the plan easier to follow. [2]
How watchful waiting differs
Watchful waiting has goals and review arrangements shaped by general health and expectations; controlling symptoms if they arise may be the main focus. It is not identical to the planned reassessment and potential transition to curative treatment used in active surveillance. Clarifying the terminology avoids misunderstanding what has been agreed. [1, 2]
Follow-up after treatment
After surgery, radiotherapy or other treatments, follow-up considers the cancer and the effects of treatment together. Expected PSA patterns differ according to the treatment received. Urinary control, sexual function, bowel symptoms and quality of life are also relevant to the discussion. [1, 3]
Understanding an individual plan
Clarify the timing of reviews, who will interpret results and which new symptoms warrant earlier contact. Another person’s follow-up interval may not be suitable because disease characteristics and treatment histories differ. Reviews offer an opportunity to discuss problems affecting daily life as well as test results. Bringing a short list of concerns can help ensure that these issues are addressed.
References
- NCI: Prostate Cancer Treatment (PDQ), Patient Version
- EAU Prostate Cancer: Treatment
- EAU Prostate Cancer: Follow-up
This article provides general health information. Consult your clinician for individual diagnosis and treatment decisions, and your pharmacist for questions about medicine use.
Published by Aymed İlaç · 17 October 2026