Monitoring for prostate cancer

Monitoring means your doctor will keep a close eye on you rather than recommending treatment straight away. You may feel fearful or angry about monitoring your cancer instead of receiving treatment. All treatments come with side effects, and your doctor will only recommend a treatment if they believe the benefits outweigh the risks for you.

There are two types of monitoring. Check with your doctor which type you are being offered.

Your doctor will talk with you about the surgery method that’s best for you.

A radical prostatectomy is a major operation, and each method has its risks. The aim of the surgery is to cure the cancer.

If the cancer is more advanced or high-risk, the surgeon might also take out lymph nodes in the pelvic area to see if the cancer has spread. This surgery takes longer and can have more complications, but it helps to find out how far the cancer has gone.

This chapter contains general information about prostate cancer treatments. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.

The development of this chapter was funded by Ferring Pharmaceuticals. Its content has been independently developed and approved by the EAU Patient Office.

Last updated: May 2025