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).