A new study suggests that in some cases, not treating prostate cancer can increase quality of life for patients and save millions of dollars.
The Quebec-based study found that active surveillance – watching and waiting – for five years could save up to $96 million for the health care system while improving quality of life for patients. The authors write that many cases of prostate cancer carry a low risk of progressing, and that up to half do not require immediate treatment at the time of diagnosis.
Original research paper published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal – Open on April 24, 2014.
Names and affiliations of selected authors
Alice Dragomir, McGill University, Quebec
