Radical treatment for localized disease: An overview of options and strategies for decision making

Abstract

It is a daunting task for a man diagnosed with apparently localized carcinoma of the prostate to become sufficiently educated that he can make an informed decision about the best management approach. Although there are numerous sources of information including books, internet web sites, and support groups, patients often rely to a great extent upon the advice of their physician. It is incumbent upon the physician, then, to provide information which is sufficiently comprehensive that patients can adequately weigh all options yet is devoid of personal agendas or biases. However, this is not easy, even for professionals who devote their careers to the study and treatment of prostate cancer. The remarkable disparity of opinions and recommendations among clinicians with access to the same information and, often, the same treatments contributes to the controversies about prostate cancer management.