PSA and prostate health: seven conversations · Part 6 of 7

If cancer is found, what happens next?

By Dr. Josh · Oct 21, 2026

If a biopsy found cancer, I would be frightened, too. I would want someone to help me understand the report before we filled the room with treatment names.

First I would get a copy and ask my doctor to write down the grade, how abnormal and potentially aggressive the cells look, and the stage, where the cancer is and whether it has spread.

For a suitable low-risk cancer confined to the prostate, I would seriously discuss active surveillance. I would record the plan for PSA, examinations, imaging and repeat biopsy when indicated, and what signs of progression would make us reconsider treatment. That is planned follow-up, not forgetting about it.

If choosing treatment, I would compare surgery, radiation and, depending on the disease, hormone therapy or other medicines. Before choosing treatment for localized cancer, I would hear from both urology and radiation oncology. Urinary, sexual and bowel effects belong alongside cancer control and the life I want to live. None of those questions would be too awkward to deserve an answer.