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Men with early stages of prostate cancer who delay radical remedy in favor of an approach of “expectant management” don’t have high levels of anxiety and distress. That is the conclusion of a brand new study published inside the September 1, 2009 concern of Cancer, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society. The study’s outcomes suggest that living with untreated cancer just isn’t upsetting for many patients with early prostate cancer.

The rapid boost in the use of screening using prostate distinct antigen (PSA) testing has led to a significant number of males diagnosed with prostate cancer, many of who don’t need remedy. In these circumstances, close clinical monitoring – or active surveillance – is frequently advised. If progression of the cancer occurs for the duration of active surveillance, patients could undergo radical therapy. While active surveillance may delay or even steer clear of the possible adverse side effects of radical therapy, it could also cause psychological harm in patients due to the fact they need to live with untreated cancer. Data on the levels of such potentially negative emotions among men on active surveillance are lacking, nonetheless.

Roderick van den Bergh, (MD), of the Erasmus Medical Center, in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and colleagues assessed levels of anxiety and distress in a group of lately diagnosed prostate cancer patients on active surveillance. They sent 150 males questionnaires to gauge uncertainty about their remedy selection, along with levels of depression and anxiety amongst these men. A total of 129 questionnaires were completed and returned an typical of two.7 months right after diagnosis. More than 80 percent of the 129 respondents scored favorably low on the parameters measured. Patients’ scores had been comparable or favorable to scores of males (reported in other studies) who underwent remedy for early prostate cancer.

Certain men in the study – for example males with neurotic personalities and people who had been in poor physical wellness – exhibited far more anxiety and distress than other people. These findings indicate that besides cancer-specific variables, mental and physical patient-specific aspects are crucial aspects to take into account when choosing men for active surveillance. The outcomes also suggest that psychological support could possibly be indicated in particular patients undergoing active surveillance.

While this study’s findings are helpful, Dr. van den Bergh noted that longer-term analyses are essential on the psychological effects of active surveillance in males with early prostate cancer. His study team is at the moment conducting such a study.

Article: “Anxiety and distress for the duration of active surveillance for early prostate cancer.” Roderick C.N. van den Bergh, Marie-Louise Essink-Bot, Monique J. Roobol, Tineke Wolters, Fritz H. Schr?der, Chris H. Bangma, and Ewout W. Steyerberg. Cancer; Published On the web: July 27, 2009 (DOI: 10.1002/cncr.24446); Print Concern Date: September 1, 2009.

Source:
David Sampson
American Cancer Society