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I guess the first thing that I can say is hello gentlemen and be politically correct. Being informed that I have Prostate Cancer 5 days ago has started me on that journey and became a member of that group. Let me begin. I am 72 years old, diagnosed with Gleason 3 + 4, Stage 2. 20% low, 70% benign, 8% high biopsy results. PSA 5.7 Since my wife and I have been planning a trip to Europe ( before receiving this news) starting in May 2019 for 3 months not returning till September 1st. I plan on making this trip. Because that puts me in Active Surveillance mode and am wondering since I am new to this on how to interpret the data that I have and the risks associated with my decision. I appreciate all of your wisdom with this. Thanks everyone. I am not sure whether people use their names on this site yet so that is why I am unknown at this time.
Hello Peter,
As you've got almost 6 months to your trip to Europe my first thoughts are that you've got time to evaluate your options. I was diagnosed with a Gleason 9 PCA in June 2013 and following surgery, radiotherapy and 30 months hormone therapy we try to ensure that, while it's best not to be complacent with Pca, we still try to enjoy a full life including 4 holidays a year.
Be guided by the advice of clinicians you trust and if it feels right for you go ahead and enjoy your holiday in Europe next year. We are currently in Funchal, Madeira and it feels lovely to enjoy some warmer winter days and sun.
Peter:
How stable is your PSA? If you are unsure You can find out by getting monthly blood draws beginning immediately.
In addition:
(1)at the very least you should begin your research effort to determine what treatment best fits your diagnosis and personal preferences. As part of your research effort you may find the following book by Bob Marckini helpful: "You Can Beat Prostate Cancer..." His chapter on the advantages and disadvantages of several methods for treating PCa is usually of particular interest to the newly diagnosed. This book is readily available, an easy read and well worth its modest price. Although this book is ten years old much of this information remains relevant.
In general the more research you undertake at this point (be sure to include up-to-date material) the more likely you will be to make a good decision for yourself. Your research will also enable you to ask good questions of the various clinicians you are bound to encounter as you proceed, and
(2)discuss your delay of treatment inclination with your PCa practitioner.
Best wishes Don O.
