While prostate cancer can be treated with surgery, there are other, less invasive options for people diagnosed with the disease. In this video, Dr. Geo Espinosa, ND, LAc, IFMCP, CNS, clinical assistant professor of integrative and functional urology at New York University and author of Thrive—Don’t Survive: Dr. Geo’s Guide to Living Your Best Life Before & After Prostate Cancer, explains two of these options—watchful waiting and active surveillance. These two terms often are used interchangeably, but there are key differences. With watchful waiting, the prostate is monitored and treatment is started only if the cancer worsens. Watchful waiting is aimed at controlling the cancer and treating any symptoms. Active surveillance, on the other hand, is also a method of watching the prostate, but it usually involves more tests (generally blood, tissue and imaging studies) and aims to cure the cancer. Both of these nonsurgical approaches are effective depending on the individual situation. If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, ask your doctor if either treatment is appropriate for you.

For more valuable information from Dr. Geo, check out his newest book Bottom Line’s 1,000 Cures for 200 Ailments: Integrative Medicine for the Most Common Illnesses 

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