What's active surveillance like for Stage I prostate cancer?

Active surveillance can feel overwhelming at first, but many find it becomes more manageable as they settle into the routine of regular monitoring. The community here has shared valuable experiences about coping strategies during the waiting periods between appointments, and connecting with others who understand this path can provide helpful perspective and support.

Don't miss anything - my psa went from 3 to 4 & my pcp said “we need to keep an eye on this”… 19 months later, it was at 5.1, went to urologist & have a Gleason score of 8 - advanced prostate cancer - never miss a test, & good luck

The word “cancer” changes the way one thinks when they are told they have cancer. I had one of fourteen fusion biopsies showing cancer. My PSA was 12 and my Gleason score was 7. I chose 5 doses of high dose radiation instead of 30 doses of low dose radiation. After it was done it took it down to 5.9, so I chose 2 doses of eligard. The severity of the side effects of either one was unknown to me. I still feel the effects of the radiation, it seemed to have affected my muscles for bowel movements, it’s harder to hold them back and to finish when I am able to get to the bathroom. Needless to say I had to buy more underwear. That side effect has not gone away. After the eligard, it’s hard to explain but I no longer felt like a human being let alone a man. 8 months later I feel something like a human but I have no reactions as to my manhood. I see my oncologist next month. All I can say is the choices we make affect us for the rest of our lives, choose carefully.