Prostate Scotland has launched an updated patient information booklet focusing on active surveillance. The resource is designed for men newly diagnosed with localised prostate cancer, helping them to understand active surveillance as a management option and supporting informed discussions with their clinical team and family.
Active surveillance may be offered to some men with early-stage prostate cancer as a management option. Rather than immediately treating the cancer, patients are carefully monitored over time, with treatment introduced if there are signs of progression or if the patient’s wishes change.
Jennifer Fallon, Information Coordinator at Prostate Scotland, said:
“Being diagnosed with prostate cancer can be overwhelming, particularly when men are faced with decisions about treatment and management. This booklet is designed to help men and their families better understand active surveillance and what it involves, so they feel more informed and confident in those discussions with their clinical team.
“Active surveillance can sometimes be misunderstood. While it involves not treating the cancer immediately, it does not mean the cancer is being ignored. Patients are actively and carefully monitored by healthcare professionals, and this booklet explains what that monitoring looks like and why it may be appropriate for some men.”
Jennifer recently joined Prostate Scotland as Information Coordinator, following more than 25 years at Pinpoint Scotland, where she worked across a range of specialist medical titles, including Urology News. Her experience working closely with clinicians and contributors to develop accurate, high-quality editorial content informs the charity’s approach to producing clear, trusted patient information.
The booklet outlines how active surveillance works in practice, including the types of monitoring involved, and the factors that may influence whether it is a suitable option, such as cancer stage, general health and lifestyle.
It is intended to support conversations between patients and clinicians, particularly within urology teams, and can also be used in primary care to support discussions following diagnosis or referral.
The resource is available both in print and as a downloadable PDF via the Prostate Scotland website. Primary care and urology teams interested in accessing printed copies for their patients, either individually or in bulk, can contact Prostate Scotland for further information at info@prostatescotland.org.uk or download it here.
All Prostate Scotland patient information resources are reviewed by the charity’s expert advisory group, PAGES, which includes clinicians from across urology and primary care, as well as men with lived experience of prostate cancer.
