Treatment
Active surveillance for prostate cancer
Also known as: watchful monitoring
Active surveillance is a monitoring approach for selected lower-risk prostate cancers. It uses scheduled tests to watch the cancer closely and start treatment if it shows signs of progressing.
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- Urology Hospitals Editorial Team
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Independent clinical review pending. This page is written by our editorial team from the cited authoritative sources and has not yet been checked by an independent qualified clinician. Always discuss your situation with your own healthcare professional.
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Why it may be used
For some lower-risk cancers, immediate treatment may not add benefit and can cause side effects. Active surveillance can be a reasonable option in these situations, decided together with the care team.
What monitoring involves
Monitoring may include scheduled PSA tests, examinations, imaging, and repeat biopsies. The exact plan is individual and can change based on results and preferences.
When treatment may begin
If monitoring suggests the cancer is progressing, the team may recommend moving to active treatment. The threshold and options should be discussed in advance.
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Sources
Prostate Cancer Treatment (PDQ) — Patient Version(opens in a new tab)
National Cancer Institute · Accessed Jul 18, 2026