Dr. Chapin on Impact of Active Surveillance in Field of Prostate Cancer

Brian F. Chapin, MD, assistant professor, Department of Urology, Division of Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, discusses impact of active surveillance in the field of prostate cancer.

There has been a large, national increase in the number of patients going onto active surveillance programs, Chapin explains. Compared with the smaller proportion seen previously, researchers now are seeing that up to 40% of men who are diagnosed with low-risk tumors are going onto an active surveillance program.

Additionally, he says, the community is recognizing that not all prostate cancers are the same. Some prostate cancers are indolent and are unlikely to cause significant problems. Patients are becoming more aware of that; therefore, they are seeking out other options and not just choosing to go with active treatment.