08.01.14
NICE publishes updated prostate cancer guidelines
New guidance has been published by NICE on how to diagnose and treat prostate cancer.
The guide updates original recommendations published in 2008, to help doctors ensure patients receive information about all the options available and are supported to choose the best option for them.
The new recommendations include doctors discussing all relevant management options with patients; considering MRI for re-biopsy to determine whether another biopsy is needed; offering patients with low-risk localised prostate cancer active surveillance; and offering mend with an intermediate and high-risk localised prostate cancer a combination of radical radiotherapy and androgen deprivation therapy.
Professor Mark Baker, Centre for Clinical Practice director at NICE, said: “The last few years have seen significant improvements in the treatment of men with advanced prostate cancer. NICE has recommended new treatments such as abiraterone, and we have also recommended enzalutamide and degarelix in draft guidance.
“The updated guideline includes a number of new recommendations on the swift diagnosis and treatment of different stages of the disease and a new protocol for men who choose active surveillance, which involves regular check-ups to see if and how the cancer is developing, rather than radical treatment. The aim of this NICE guideline is to ensure that excellent treatment is provided for men who will benefit from it.”
Dr John Graham, consultant lead clinical oncologist at Taunton and Somerset NHS Trust and chair of the Guideline Development Group, said: “All treatments for prostate cancer have serious side effects which can affect the quality of life, especially their effects on erectile function, fertility and continence.
“This is why it is so important that men are able to understand the treatment options available to them and, with the support of their healthcare professional, are able to make a choice to suit their individual needs, both clinically and related to their quality of life.”
Dr Sarah Cant, representing patients and carers on the Guideline Development Group said: “We want to ensure that all men diagnosed with prostate cancer receive the same high level of care, no matter where they live. Men and their carers should be supported at all times by appropriately trained professionals who can explain all the treatment and support options that are available for them. By making sure information and support are important aspects of care, we hope that all men will be better able to make the treatment choices that are right for them.”
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