Stage 2

Stage 2

You will probably have arrived at a diagnosis of Stage 2 Prostate Cancer from a diagnostic path that began with an abnormal PSA level, followed by an mpMRI scan that yielded a PIRADS score of 4 or 5 – or, in some cases, 3. You could also have arrived at Stage 2 from Active Surveillance (Stage 1) if the tumour has begun to grow more rapidly. These situations would have called for a biopsy to establish the aggressiveness of the cancer.

You will almost certainly be offered a variety of treatment options, including Radiotherapy, Brachytherapy, and Surgery. Hormone Therapy will probably be used as an adjuvant in the case of treatments by Radiotherapy or Brachytherapy.

You should look at the pages on these 4 treatment modalities.

Is one of the the 3 non-adjuvant treatments any “better” than the others? A difficult question to answer, but it should be remembered that all will have some side effects and these differ between modalities. I would advise you to choose the modality that you feel most comfortable with as this will give you the best feeling of optimism, going forward.

However, one of the differences between the modalities is the effect on sexual activity and you should discuss this with your treatment advisers. You may switch to a treatment modality that is not your obvious choice if you are unhappy with particular side effects in this area. Again, be optimistic about your choice.

Your prospects of a full cure are very close to 100%. Your cancer can recur but this is usually many years “down the track” and you should not dwell on this point. There are ways to deal with recurrence. Remain optimistic throughout.