As you can see from the comments received, there is a plethora of alternate views on treatment. It is my opinion, one treatment plan does not meet everyone's wants/needs/etc.

For myself, I was diagnosed with PC 1 1/2 years ago, 56 years old, Gleason Score of 7 (4/3). I did a lot of research and talked to people that had different treatment plans. In the end, I decided on a robotically assisted radical prostatectomy at a center of excellence (Mayo-Rochester). For me, this was the only logical choice, I did not want all of the side effects associated with radiation and hormone therapy, and wanted to have a procedure that allowed for physical examination of margins. Technology has come a long way, but scanning tools are not perfect and I was unwilling to bet my life on an imperfect scanning tool. I chose to find the best possible center of excellence and the best possible surgeon at that center of excellence.

I cannot understand why any doctor would tell you that active surveillance is a viable option at the young age of 64 (unless you have other life limiting issues). And even more perplexing, why would a doctor ever recommend for you to wait 1-3 years and then address the cancer. If you have known cancer in your body, address it immediately. Letting any cancer in your body only increases the chance of metastasis. As anyone will tell you, when PC metastasizes, your life is changed forever.

My personal recommendation (based on my set of circumstances - relatively young, healthy, positive attitude and wanting to live 30+ years PC free), I would recommend getting a radical prostatectomy at the best center of excellence you can find and taking the time to find the best surgeon at that center of excellence. Don't let a 4-5 hour drive or 2-3 hour flight sway your opinion. A minor inconvenience today will have a profound impact on the quality of life for the rest of your life.

Best of luck with your treatment decision!!

Jim

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