Treatment options for prostate cancer: evaluating the evidence.

摘要: Controversy surrounds the management options for localized prostate cancer-conservative management, prostatectomy, and radiation. Choosing among these is difficult because of long-term side effects that include sexual, urinary, bowel dysfunction. Some recent studies suggest patients who have chosen treatment (i.e., radical prostatectomy or radiation) longer disease-free survival compared with conservative watchful waiting). However, several biases may artificially enhance perceived value make interpretation on outcomes difficult. Sources bias lead time, length patient selection. Because uncertain efficacy risk complications, family physicians need to engage their in decision-making process.