Surveillance

Surveillance for Cancer Patients

For certain types of cancer, active surveillance may be the preferred treatment approach. Your cancer will be closely monitored, but active treatment will not begin unless it becomes necessary. This conservative strategy can help you avoid the potential side effects of treatment. While active surveillance isn’t appropriate for all cancers, it is important to discuss with your provider whether it is a suitable option for you. Some cancers may progress during surveillance, so it is essential to have a clear plan for testing, monitoring, and determining when to initiate treatment if needed.

Surveillance After Cancer Treatment

After completing treatment for most early-stage cancers, your care team will discuss a cancer surveillance plan to monitor for any recurrence. This typically involves regular office visits and, in some cases, additional lab tests and imaging.