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Just found out I have prostate cancer...
I'm 51, and for the past 2 years, i've been getting my PSA levels checked about every 6 months. In December 2021, my PSA numbers were 'elevated' so the doc took notice (i tested at 4.7, the doc said it should be around 3.5). So i tested again in Feb, 2022 and the number had dropped to 4.3. Great news, i thought, so we tested again in July, 2022, and the level was a calming 3.6. Next test, in December 2022, was 4.1... then, out of nowhere (June, 2023), i found myself at 6.6 and have since been more and more concerned that this might be cancer. Prostate exam suggested that it was possible, followed by an ultrasound that was 'inconclusive'... followed by one of the most unpleasant experiences of my 51 years... the biopsy (the recovery was worse than the procedure by far).
I got my results last week, showing adenocarcinoma in the right lateral base (60%) and the right lateral mid (1%) both having a gleason score of 3+3=6.
Though my results are that i am in a Gleason grade 1, which i have learned is the most favorable, it's still VERY concerning for me... Especially considering i'm barely into my 50's.
There is so much information on the internet, not all of it great, so i've been trying my best to get accurate information from reliable sources, which is what brought me to the Mayo.
I've decided to do nothing for now (Watchful waiting/Active Surveillance; getting PSA tests every 3 months)... I'm curious if others would agree with this approach.
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I did nothing in 2017 when diagnosed with a Gleason 6. I am now 57. In 2013 I had a small lesion on one side of my prostate which the biopsy showed was a Gleason 7. I did a HIFU procedure a couple of weeks ago and have no erectile or contenance issues. I still have Gleason 6 on the other side of my prostate. I am scheduled for a December PSA followed by a March PSA and MRI to see how effective the HIFU was. my doctor told me I did not need a biopsy every other year, and that the biopsy will just drive you to the MRI. I did have another targeted biopsy after the lesion appeared which was as much fun as the first one.
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2 ReactionsI was not diagnosed till was 64. My PSA was 4.7 and actually went down to 3.8 before treatment. You plan sounds good but evert three months seems excessive. Seems like your only other option is Lupron to lower your testosterone levels.
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1 ReactionEveryone is different. I’m 74 and chose to have RLP. When it was determined I had cancer in me, I wanted it out. Period. Three months post surgery at Mayo Jax. Incontinence decreasing daily. 1st PSA post surgery 10/19. Expecting good results. Talked to a friend yesterday who chose radiology who had lower PSA and Gleason than I and his 1st three-month PSA was 2.0. Ugh! We each have to balance, then decide what we are willing to endure to live longer. I know that at some point, I will have to make a call. My thinking right now is that I don’t want to live live poorly just to live longer. I believe that I will live forever, and that the life to come is better than this one.
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5 ReactionsPlease clarify first PSA post surgery of 10/19. I have never seen that method of reporting one's PSA. Normal reading would be < .008 or < .010
10/19 refers to the date of my post PSA, not the results. Sorry for the sentence fragments.
As much fun as the first one. LOL I am glad you have not lost your sense of humor. My first and only was a 30 core transperineally one and it was a real blast too. Dr. Frendle at Mayo Phoenix did a real good job of numbing me up and I can't say enough about him.
I have seen studies that show almost no difference in life expectancy of 15 years for prostate cancer if you do nothing, have an RP, or radiation. If you are 74 and get 15 years that puts you at 89. Almost sounds like you are looking forward to living in a nursing home. I went with the radiation because I am your age but looking at the obits we are still older than many in the news that are dead way younger than us. I say all the time that no one gets off this rock alive. Good luck and as Spock said "Live long and prosper".
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2 ReactionsBest wishes with your treatment! I agree with you. Make the call with which you are most comfortable and that is medically reasonable, then live your life. Three months post RLP I am basically fully continent and have had no other side effects. I feel blessed!
I had a parent die in a nursing home at 95. Even with a private sitter for years, before and during the nursing home confinement, I wouldn’t wish those final years on any family. Everybody wants to go to heaven but nobody wants to die.
I’m headed to my farm today to spray some weeds, pressure wash my cabin, and continue prep to burn some planted pines. Feeling fortunate for the life God has given me so far and ready to live more of it! Best to you!
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3 ReactionsMikewo, do the studies that you mention differentiate between regular PC and CR cancer or Gleason 9 and Gleason 7 or young cancer at 60 or cancer at 70. Perhaps the different shades of PC make a difference as to the aggressiveness of proper treatment, We all want a quality of life for as long as possible so I am interested in the details of the studies that you mentioned
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1 ReactionThank you, Jim. For me, i dont fret the short-term pain and inconvenience that a procedure would give me... i worry about potential side effects like ED or incontinence. That, to me, would be worse that waiting. Ugh... tough to know what to do.