Hello I have just been diagnosed with Gleeson score 7 prostrate cancer late December 2023. Initially urology steered me to consider a radical protestecomy, but the surgeon called me recently and us suggesting I go onto Active Survellance instead of the operation. I am therefore confused and worried. It would be helpful to speak to anyone in the same position who has been on the surveillance for some time, or an expert. Thank you.
Hi Boatlifepaul
Thanks for getting in touch.
My name is Paula and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.
I can see you have joined our prostate cancer forum. I hope you’re finding it helpful to share your experiences with others.
I am sorry to hear about your diagnosis and the confusion around treatment options currently being offered. Treatment decisions are always difficult to make especially when you’ve been given a choice as they bring a lot of uncertainties.
Your team would have made a decision based on a number of factors which would have been discussed in a muti-disciplinary team meeting. This meeting would have looked at your Gleeson score, biopsy results and any scans you may have had. The outcome will give your team the best treatment options available to you at this time.
From the information you have provided it sounds like you have localised prostate cancer. There are several ways they can manage this. Either through active surveillance or other treatment options such as a surgery. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. It would be worth speaking to your urologist about the risk and benefit of both options being offered and the reason the treatment decision was changed.
Talking to other prostate cancer patients is also a good approach to take. Prostate Cancer UK offer a range of support including one to one support. Another good support network you may find helpful to look at is Tackle Prostate Cancer.
It would be worthwhile taking to your hospital team or cancer nurse specialist (CNS) again about your concerns, as they are in an ideal position to support and manage your individualised care and treatment appropriately.
However, you might find it helpful to talk to one of our nurses on the support line. Sometimes giving us a call can help. It’s a free phone number on 0808 808 0000 and we are here 7 days a week, 8am-8pm or email us.
I hope this information has been helpful, please don’t hesitate to get back in touch.
Ref: PW AMc
