What to consider?

A Message to Those Recently Diagnosed

You are about to make one of the most important decisions of your life – what to do about your cancer of the prostate.

Your eventual decision should take three major areas into consideration:

Medical

Social

Psychological
What is your PSA history? (A rapid rise in PSA can mean aggressive cancer). How old are you? (Life expectancy is an important consideration since most prostate cancer is slow growing). Is your response active or passive?
What is your Gleeson Score? (Did you get a second opinion? A score of “7” or higher may indicate aggressive cancer). Are you working or are you retired? Is your work primarily physical or mental? Must the cancer be eradicated or are you a candidate for Watchful Warrioring? (Managing the disease)
How many biopsy cores (indicates size and pervasiveness of the tumor[s]) were cancerous? Are you sexually active? (A substantial percentage of treatments result in impotence). Can you reduce the stress in your life?
What was your prostate cancer stage @ biopsy? Have you discussed the possible side effects of the treatment options with your significant other? What is more important – your future quality of life or your future quantity of life?
How large is your prostate gland? (Size affects treatment options.) Do you smoke? (Smoking severely compromises the immune system.) Are you disciplined to persist with necessary lifestyle changes?
Is the cancer confined to the capsule? (How do you know – Spectroscopic MRI or Enhanced Doppler Color Ultrasound?) Are you willing to take the time and money to become an expert on your own health issues?
Do you have other health issues that will likely reduce your life expectancy (e.g., heart trouble, diabetes, etc.)?