What is the preferred treatment approach for localized prostate cancer?

The preferred treatment approach for localized prostate cancer is indeed active surveillance or localized therapy such as surgery or radiation. This approach is favored because localized prostate cancer is often slow-growing and may not pose an immediate threat to the patient’s health.

Active surveillance involves closely monitoring the cancer with regular check-ups and tests, allowing patients to avoid or delay the side effects of treatment until it is necessary. This is a suitable option for men with lower-risk prostate cancer, particularly those who may have other health issues or a longer life expectancy.

Localized therapy, which includes surgical options like radical prostatectomy and radiation therapy, is also effective in treating localized prostate cancer. These treatments aim to eradicate the cancer while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue and minimizing the risk of recurrence. Surgery might be suitable for patients who prefer to remove the tumor completely, while radiation therapy can be an effective alternative, especially for those who are not fit for surgery or prefer to avoid it.

The other treatment options listed, such as immediate aggressive chemotherapy, high-dose systemic therapy, and bone marrow transplant, are generally reserved for more advanced stages of cancer or types that are not localized. They are not the standard of care for localized prostate cancer because they can involve more significant side effects and do not necessarily provide better