Prostate Cancer Focal Therapy as Primary Treatment
Many Gents and their Carers visit our Low/Intermediate Prostate Cancer Group with the intention of using focal therapy to treat their situation. They believe this minimizes treatment and side effects.
AnCan has never been a huge fan of any form of focal therapy. We strongly hold that it is not needed or appropriate for GG1 (Gleason 3+3) men. If elected, it is largely for men with GG2 (G3+4) and on rare occasions GG3 (G4+3).
A major concern with focal therapy is the high rate of recurrence, no matter the type of focal treatment.. Invariably it is over 50%. Since many trials and practitioners treat men with 3+3 disease with some success, the true rate of failure for men with GG2 and GG3 may be considerably higher.
In the UCSF Patient Conference on Prostate Cancer ( April 17, 2026), Dr. Matt Cooperberg presented the following slide that guides AnCan Moderators:
(apologies for clarity… from a screenshot)
Please note AnCan does not provide medical advice. The guidance above is for information only and should be discussed with your medical providers.