Recommended Treatment Options

Hi TX,

It sounds like your prostate cancer is a "low risk" issue, which is good compared to the more aggressive stages. If you're looking for treatment that doesn't keep you down/in bed for tool long, I'd check out info on HIFU treatment (which stands for high intensity focused ultrasound). It's minimally invasive and a lot of prostate cancer patients who receive it experience success and are up and about the next day. Also, over half of HIFU-treated men are able to retain erectile function. And who doesn't like that statistic?! There are several treatment centers in North America, too. Definitely sounds like it could be a potential option for ya.

As others have said, you have lot's of time to make a decision. I was initially diagnosed at the same age as you, but with higher stats. So for me, Active Surveillance would obviously be my choice. I have adopted the diet you are thinking of and I think it does help. I do cheat and have a little turkey at Christmas and Thanksgiving and a little skinless chicken a couple of times a year. I also eat fish and try to eat a lot of dark colored vegetables and fruit. As well, I drink a glass of pomegranate juice with a half teaspoon of turmeric, some black pepper, oregano and rosemary every morning. It sound distasteful but I find it surprisingly refreshing. All of these are thought to be beneficial against cancer - I figure if it won't hurt you, why not?

I just had my 3rd biopsy and even though there are now 3 cores positive, the total percentage is lower than the 1st 2. That is probably just where the needle hit, but it at least indicates that things are pretty stable.

Previously people in their 50s were considered far too young for AS but very, very gradually attitudes are changing. Studies are indicating that people with small amounts of Gleason 6 following AS have no less life expectancy than those who seek more aggressive treatments. There are always the outliers who may have a more aggressive disease and you have to accept that chance. However, that is why you have the followup biopsies. My urologist says now that I have 3 under my belt (figuratively and literally) I can probably go 2 years before the next one provided my PSA stays reasonably stable.

I would highly recommend watching Dr. Myers videologs on the subject:

http://askdrmyers.wordpress.com/

I like what over the pond said with one caveat, especially for an athlete, Strenuous exercise will not cause a rise in psa in my opinion. exercise on bycyle or stationary bike yes, motorcycle yes. To ask an avid athlete to refrain from exercise even strenuous for 72 hours is not necessary. Not sure where that comes from , tho have heard it here before. I have never heard or read that from anyone in the medical profession, but have heard from medicos on the other warnings. Just my take. Any doubts check with doc.