Prostate surgery – What to do instead

Opt for watchful waiting if your tumour is localised while monitoring whether your cancer is progressing (and if so, how quickly). This conservative management approach entails regular PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing, digital rectal examination and probably biopsy. You will be able to avoid the side-effects of aggressive treatment while making the mental, emotional and physical lifestyle changes that can slow cancer growth

* Supplement with these proven prostate-cancer fighters:
– Huang Qin, a Chinese herbal remedy and flavonoid extract, from the dried root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Cancer Lett, 2000; 160: 219-28)
– Triphala extract, a combination of three Indian herbs (harada, amla and bihara) (J Ethnopharmacol, 2005; 97: 15-20).

* Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is proven to have anti-inflammatory effects on the prostate and to improve urinary symptoms (Aging Male, 2004; 7: 155-69; Urology, 2001; 58: 960-4). Suggested dosage: 160 mg twice daily or 320 mg once daily (extract should contain 80-90 per cent of the volatile oil).