Quality of life in early prostate cancer. Do we know enough to treat?

Informed consent is especially important for patients with early (nonmetastatic) prostate cancer. Because it occurs in older men and usually grows slowly, most newly diagnosed patients are likely to live many years and most likely will die without symptoms of metastatic cancer. The complications of treatment, however, may begin within months and be permanent. Recent studies using modern survey techniques are beginning to provide accurate information on treatment complications. A careful, thorough discussion between doctor and patient is necessary to identify the best available therapy for each patient.