There are several ways to treat or monitor prostate cancer. The options that are suitable for you depend on factors including whether the cancer is contained within the prostate or has spread, how likely it is to grow, your general health, and your own preferences.
Your specialist team should explain the potential benefits and side effects of the options that are appropriate for you. There is no single treatment that is best for everyone, and it is reasonable to ask questions or seek a second opinion if you need more information before making a decision.
Understanding your tests and test results can also help you discuss treatment options with your specialist team.
Read NHS information about prostate cancer treatment.
Monitoring prostate cancer
Active surveillance
Active surveillance is an option for some people with localised prostate cancer that has a lower risk of spreading. Instead of having treatment straight away, you have regular tests to monitor the cancer. If there are signs that it is progressing, treatment intended to cure the cancer can still be offered.
Read more about Active Surveillance.
Watchful waiting
Watchful waiting is different from active surveillance. It usually involves fewer tests and may be suitable when prostate cancer is unlikely to cause problems during a person’s lifetime or when treatment intended to cure the cancer would not be suitable. If symptoms develop, treatment can be offered to control the cancer and manage those symptoms.
Read more about Watchful Waiting.
Treatments for prostate cancer
Surgery
For some people with prostate cancer that has not spread, surgery to remove the prostate may be an option. This operation is called a radical prostatectomy and may be performed using robotic-assisted, keyhole or open surgery depending on individual circumstances and the specialist centre.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. It can be used to treat cancer contained within or close to the prostate and can also be used in some circumstances to control cancer that has spread or to relieve symptoms.
Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy is a type of internal radiotherapy. Depending on the type used, radioactive sources are placed inside or close to the prostate either temporarily or permanently. It is suitable for some people with localised prostate cancer.
Read more about Brachytherapy.
Hormone therapy
Hormone therapy reduces the effect of testosterone on prostate cancer cells. It can be used alongside radiotherapy, for cancer that has spread beyond the prostate, and in other situations depending on the stage and characteristics of the cancer.
Read more about Hormone Therapy.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer medicines to destroy cancer cells. It is used for some people with advanced or higher-risk prostate cancer and may be given alongside other treatments.
Other treatments
Other treatments may be appropriate in particular circumstances, including high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), cryotherapy and newer drug treatments. Availability and suitability depend on the type and stage of prostate cancer and current NHS guidance.
See our HIFU and Cryotherapy pages for more information.
Choosing a treatment
Different treatments have different possible benefits and side effects. These can include urinary problems, bowel problems, tiredness and changes to sexual function, depending on the treatment. Your specialist team can explain how the options apply to your particular cancer and your general health.
Read Prostate Cancer UK information about choosing a treatment.
If you are considering complementary or alternative approaches, discuss them with your specialist team before making changes to your cancer treatment. Some approaches can interact with medicines or may not have reliable evidence that they treat prostate cancer.
This information provides a general introduction to prostate cancer treatment and does not replace advice from your urologist, oncologist or specialist cancer team.