Johns Hopkins Active Surveillance is a prostate cancer treatment program that is designed to help men with low-risk prostate cancer avoid the potential side effects and risks associated with aggressive treatments such as surgery and radiation. It is a program that focuses on close monitoring of the patient’s condition, with the goal of avoiding any further treatment unless necessary. This article will discuss the details of the program, how it works, and its potential benefits.

What is the standard active surveillance protocol for prostate cancer at Johns Hopkins?

At Johns Hopkins, the standard active surveillance protocol for prostate cancer includes regular prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams, and the early evaluation of any changes in PSA levels or other symptoms. The patient’s PSA levels, age, and overall health status are evaluated periodically to determine if active surveillance is still the most appropriate treatment plan. If any of these parameters show changes, Johns Hopkins may recommend further testing and intervention.

What are the potential risks associated with using active surveillance for prostate cancer at Johns Hopkins?

The potential risks associated with using active surveillance for prostate cancer at Johns Hopkins include the risk of cancer progression, the risk of overtreatment, and the risk of psychological distress. Active surveillance requires close monitoring of the cancer, which may cause anxiety and stress. Additionally, there is the risk of changes in the cancer that lead to the need for more aggressive treatment, potentially missing the opportunity for curative treatment.

What type of follow-up care is typically recommended for patients undergoing active surveillance for prostate cancer at Johns Hopkins?

At Johns Hopkins, patients undergoing active surveillance for prostate cancer typically receive regular follow-up care, which includes regular physical exams, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, and biopsies. Depending on the results of these tests and the patient’s overall health, additional treatments such as surgery or radiation may be recommended. Johns Hopkins also offers a wide array of support services to help patients and their families cope with their diagnosis and treatment.

What type of monitoring is typically recommended for patients undergoing active surveillance for prostate cancer at Johns Hopkins?

At Johns Hopkins, active surveillance for prostate cancer typically involves careful monitoring with regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams, and periodic prostate biopsies. Imaging tests such as transrectal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging may also be used to help monitor the progression of the disease. Additionally, Johns Hopkins recommends that patients undergoing active surveillance for prostate cancer receive regular medical examinations and assessments from a urologist.

What are the guidelines for defining when active surveillance should be halted in prostate cancer patients?

At Johns Hopkins, active surveillance for prostate cancer is recommended for patients with a low risk of disease progression. Active surveillance involves regular monitoring of the patient’s PSA levels and prostate biopsies to monitor for any changes in the cancer. When active surveillance is used, the patient’s PSA levels and prostate biopsies should be monitored every 6 months or more frequently. If the patient’s PSA levels increase or their biopsy results show signs of progression, active surveillance should be halted and a different treatment plan should be considered. Additionally, if the patient’s Gleason score increases or there is evidence of a tumor invading nearby tissue, active surveillance should also be stopped and a different treatment plan should be pursued.

At what stage is prostate cancer not curable?

At Johns Hopkins, active surveillance for prostate cancer is recommended for men with low-risk prostate cancer. These men have a very slow-growing cancer and may not need treatment. However, when the cancer progresses to a higher risk, it is no longer curable and may require more aggressive treatment.

What is the newest treatment for prostate cancer?

Active surveillance of prostate cancer is an approach to managing the condition that is gaining in popularity. It involves closely monitoring a patient’s condition over time, rather than immediately proceeding with treatment. At Johns Hopkins, the active surveillance program is designed to closely follow patients who have been diagnosed with localized prostate cancer. The team of specialists involved in the program will regularly monitor a patient’s PSA levels, as well as perform biopsies and take imaging studies when needed. Patients also receive counseling from a team of experts in order to make an informed decision about their treatment options.

What is the advantage of active surveillance?

Active surveillance is a treatment option for prostate cancer patients that involves closely monitoring the cancer with regular tests such as digital rectal exams, PSA tests, and prostate biopsies instead of immediately pursuing more aggressive treatments like radiation or surgery. The advantage of active surveillance is that it allows patients to avoid the potential side effects and complications of surgery or radiation while still closely monitoring their cancer and being able to act quickly if it starts to progress. Active surveillance is recommended by Johns Hopkins for low-risk prostate cancer patients because it offers a chance to delay or avoid aggressive treatments.

How do you slow down the spread of prostate cancer?

Active surveillance for prostate cancer is an approach to managing the disease by closely monitoring the patient’s condition, rather than immediately pursuing aggressive treatment. The goal is to allow the patient to live with the cancer for a period of time, while engaging in strategies to slow the spread of the cancer. Strategies may include close monitoring of the patient’s PSA levels, regular physical exams, and regular testing. In addition, lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight can help slow the progression of prostate cancer.

When is active surveillance appropriate for prostate cancer?

Active surveillance for prostate cancer is an appropriate option for patients who have a low-risk cancer that is not likely to cause harm or symptoms. At Johns Hopkins, active surveillance is recommended for men with very low-risk prostate cancer who have a life expectancy of 10 years or less and a PSA level of less than 10 ng/mL. Active surveillance involves periodically repeating tests and exams to monitor the cancer and determine if further treatment is necessary.

What is the disadvantage of increased surveillance?

The main disadvantage of increased surveillance when it comes to prostate cancer is that it is a costly process that requires many resources. Additionally, increased surveillance may lead to over-diagnosis, resulting in unnecessary treatment, which can lead to potential side effects. Finally, increased surveillance can lead to increased anxiety and decreased quality of life for those being monitored.

What is the death rate of men with prostate cancer?

At Johns Hopkins, the death rate of men with prostate cancer who opt for active surveillance is very low—less than one percent. The death rate increases with age and is higher for those with a Gleason score of 8 or higher. However, the overall mortality rate for men with prostate cancer who use active surveillance is still quite low.

What stage is a Gleason score of 7?

A Gleason score of 7 indicates an intermediate risk prostate cancer. For those with prostate cancer who have been diagnosed with a Gleason score of 7 and are considering active surveillance, Johns Hopkins recommends that patients discuss the potential risks and benefits with their physician.

What is the difference between active surveillance and watchful waiting in prostate cancer?

Active surveillance is a strategy used in prostate cancer management to monitor the cancer closely and hold off on treating it unless the cancer progresses. The goal is to use this approach to reduce unnecessary treatments that can have adverse side effects. Johns Hopkins has been a leader in researching and advocating for active surveillance, which involves regular testing and monitoring of the cancer to ensure it is not growing or changing. Watchful waiting is similar to active surveillance in that it involves monitoring the cancer closely; however, this approach is generally used when the cancer is not causing symptoms. Watchful waiting is typically used for older men or those with other medical conditions that may not tolerate treatment well.

What are the characteristics of active surveillance?

Active surveillance is a form of watchful waiting for men with early-stage, low-risk prostate cancer. It is a management option that involves closely monitoring the cancer without any initial treatment. The goal of active surveillance is to delay or avoid potential side effects of treatment, such as incontinence and impotence, while still providing for the best possible outcome. The characteristics of active surveillance involve frequent monitoring of the cancer with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, digital rectal exams, and repeat biopsies. It also involves regular consultations with your doctor to discuss any new or changing symptoms, as well as information about your PSA levels, biopsy results, and any imaging studies.

What is the survival rate of a Gleason score of 7?

The survival rate of a Gleason score of 7 depends on the stage of the prostate cancer and the treatment plan. According to the Johns Hopkins Prostate Cancer Center, for those with Gleason scores of 7 and a localized stage of prostate cancer, the 10-year survival rate is from 68-91%. Active surveillance strategies are recommended for those with localized prostate cancer and a Gleason score of 7.

What is the best treatment for Gleason 7 prostate cancer?

Active surveillance is the best treatment for Gleason 7 prostate cancer. This approach is based on careful monitoring of the cancer and delaying treatment until it is necessary. Johns Hopkins has been a leader in active surveillance for Gleason 7 prostate cancer, and offers the most comprehensive approach to monitoring the disease and determining when to begin treatment. This includes periodic imaging, lab tests, and physical exams to track the cancer’s growth.

What is the difference between active and passive surveillance of disease?

Active surveillance of prostate cancer is when a patient and their doctor closely monitor the patient’s condition by regularly performing Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests, prostate biopsies, and digital rectal exams. If the cancer begins to grow, the patient and their doctor can develop a plan to treat the cancer immediately. Passive surveillance of prostate cancer involves tracking and gathering data from the medical records of patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. This data is used to analyze trends in prostate cancer diagnoses and treatments.

What are prerequisites for application of active surveillance as a treatment plan in prostate cancer?

In order to be eligible for active surveillance as a treatment plan for prostate cancer at Johns Hopkins, the following prerequisites must be met

1) The patient must have a low-risk prostate cancer that has been confirmed by a biopsy.
2) The patient must have an initial PSA level of 10 ng/mL or less.
3) The patient must not have any evidence of metastatic disease.
4) The patient must not have any signs or symptoms of the cancer.
5) The patient must be willing to participate in regular follow-up visits and tests.

What is an example of active surveillance?

Active surveillance prostate cancer is a treatment option in which patients are monitored regularly and closely for signs of cancer progression. For example, Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore offers an active surveillance program for prostate cancer, in which men with low-risk prostate cancer receive regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, digital rectal exams, and prostate biopsies to check for any changes in their disease. If the cancer does progress, the patient can then receive more aggressive treatments such as surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy.

What is the most useful screening method for prostate cancer?

Active surveillance is the most useful screening method for prostate cancer. This method involves periodic monitoring of the cancer with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, digital rectal exams (DREs) and biopsies. Johns Hopkins recommends this approach for patients with early-stage prostate cancer who are at low risk for progression. Active surveillance can lead to earlier detection and treatment of prostate cancer if the cancer progresses.

What is the prognosis for a Gleason score of 7?

The prognosis for a Gleason score of 7 is typically determined by the stage of prostate cancer. If the cancer is in an early stage (stage 1 or 2), active surveillance may be recommended. Active surveillance involves regular check-ups to monitor the cancer and to make sure it has not spread. If the cancer has spread or if the Gleason score is higher than 7, other treatments such as surgery or radiation may be recommended. Ultimately, the prognosis will depend on the individual patient and the type of treatments they receive.

What is the strongest predictor of risk for prostate cancer?

Active surveillance is a form of monitoring prostate cancer that involves regular testing, such as PSA tests, to determine if cancer is progressing. It is not a treatment, but a form of watchful waiting. The strongest predictor of risk for prostate cancer when on active surveillance is the PSA score. A higher PSA score has been linked to an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer and a higher chance of progression. Other factors that can indicate a higher risk of prostate cancer progression are a higher Gleason score, higher tumor stage, and age.

Can you do active surveillance with a Gleason score of 7?

Yes, active surveillance is an option for men with a Gleason score of 7. Johns Hopkins experts recommend that men with a Gleason score of 7 who are considering active surveillance should have a biopsy with at least 12 cores and a PSA of less than 10, as well as other factors that suggest a low risk of progression. Regular follow-up with a urologist is essential to help monitor the cancer.

Why is PSA screening no longer recommended?

Active surveillance for prostate cancer is a monitoring program that involves regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and other tests to decide if treatment is needed. PSA screening is no longer recommended because it can lead to unnecessary treatments, such as surgery and radiation, for prostate cancer that may never cause harm. Active surveillance is a more reliable way to monitor prostate cancer and can help men avoid the side effects of treatment.

What is the difference between passive and active surveillance?

Active surveillance of prostate cancer is a method of monitoring and managing the disease without resorting to surgery or radiation. It involves regular tests such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, digital rectal exams (DREs), and possibly biopsies to detect changes in the tumor. By closely monitoring the cancer, doctors can decide when to begin treatment if necessary. Passive surveillance, on the other hand, does not involve regular testing or monitoring. Instead, treatment is initiated only if a person experiences symptoms or test results indicate a need for intervention.

How long can you be ADT for prostate cancer?

Active Surveillance (AS) for prostate cancer at Johns Hopkins is a program for men with low-risk prostate cancer who choose to monitor their cancer, rather than pursue immediate treatment. The length of AS depends on the needs of the patient and can range from months to years. The program is designed to monitor the patient’s cancer and detect any changes that warrant more aggressive treatment. The Johns Hopkins AS protocol includes regular follow-up visits, PSA testing, and prostate biopsies.

What is the most common complication with ADT?

The most common complication with Active Surveillance (AS) for prostate cancer is anxiety. Patients may experience anxiety related to the uncertainty associated with the decision to forego curative treatment and the lack of definitive information on the natural course of their disease. Other potential complications of AS include the need for frequent follow-up examinations to monitor the progression of the disease and the potential risks of delayed treatment if the progression of the disease is greater than initially expected.

What does active surveillance involve?

Active surveillance for prostate cancer involves closely monitoring a patient’s cancer without administering any treatments. The patient is monitored regularly with PSA tests, digital rectal exams, and biopsy. At Johns Hopkins, active surveillance is typically recommended for patients with low-risk prostate cancer.

Is Gleason 7 low risk?

Active surveillance is a management strategy for prostate cancer that involves monitoring the cancer rather than aggressive treatment. Gleason 7 prostate cancer is classified as a “low risk” form of the disease, and therefore is a candidate for active surveillance. Studies have shown that active surveillance can be a safe and effective strategy for Gleason 7 prostate cancer, with outcomes similar to those of patients receiving treatment.

At what age do you stop monitoring PSA?

At Johns Hopkins, active surveillance is generally recommended for men with low-risk prostate cancer. PSA levels should be monitored annually in men on active surveillance, and decisions about when to stop monitoring PSA levels are based on an individual’s age, overall health, and the progression of their cancer. Generally, PSA monitoring should continue until at least age 70, and may need to be continued beyond this age depending on the individual’s health and cancer status.

Is active surveillance considered treatment?

Yes, active surveillance is considered a treatment option for prostate cancer at Johns Hopkins. Active surveillance is a way to monitor the cancer closely with regular testing and exams. This approach is an option for patients whose cancer is not aggressive and unlikely to cause harm in the short-term. It allows for treatment to be delayed if the cancer doesn’t progress.

Is active surveillance more accurate?

Yes, active surveillance is more accurate when it comes to prostate cancer. Johns Hopkins experts have found that patients who have chosen active surveillance have a greater chance of avoiding unnecessary treatments and having the cancer detected early, when it is more treatable. Active surveillance also helps reduce the risk of side effects from treatments, such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction.

How many men are on active surveillance for prostate cancer?

At Johns Hopkins, active surveillance for prostate cancer is recommended for men whose cancer does not appear to be growing very quickly. Currently, there are approximately 1,000 men on active surveillance for prostate cancer at Johns Hopkins.

What are the disadvantages of active surveillance?

Active surveillance for prostate cancer has many advantages, but there are some potential downsides as well. The primary disadvantage of active surveillance is that it can take longer than other treatments to detect any changes in cancer progression, making it difficult to catch the cancer in the early stages. Additionally, some men may experience anxiety related to not knowing whether their cancer is progressing. Lastly, there may be an increased risk of complications from delayed treatments.

What is the difference between watchful waiting and active surveillance in prostate cancer?

Active surveillance for prostate cancer is a management approach used for patients with low-risk cancer. It involves monitoring the cancer closely, but not immediately treating it. The main goal is to avoid overtreating the cancer, since treatment can sometimes cause more harm than good in these cases. Watchful waiting is a similar approach, but it is used for prostate cancer patients who are older and/or have other health conditions that make treatment too risky. In this approach, the patient is monitored, but not treated unless the cancer progresses.

What is involved in active surveillance for prostate cancer?

Active surveillance for prostate cancer at Johns Hopkins involves regular monitoring of a patient’s PSA levels, digital rectal exams, and/or biopsies. Patients are also routinely screened for any signs of progression using imaging tests such as MRI and/or CT scans. If the cancer begins to progress, the patient and their doctor can then decide on a more aggressive treatment plan.