Differences and commonalities in the management of locally advanced prostate cancer: Results from a survey of oncologists and urologists in the UK

OBJECTIVE: To determine the management practices used by UK oncologists and urologists for patients with locally advanced (non-metastatic) prostate cancer. METHODS: Using a postal questionnaire, 155 practising specialist oncologists and urologists were surveyed in the UK. Their views were sought on a multidisciplinary approach to the management of locally advanced prostate cancer and their current management practices. RESULTS: Over half of respondents recognized the need for both oncologists and urologists to take the lead in management decisions, but almost as many still expected the sole responsibility to lie within their own speciality. Radical radiotherapy (RT) was considered the current optimum treatment by most respondents, but 22% of urologists thought that radical prostatectomy is optimal. Most responders would use luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists as neoadjuvant and adjuvant to RT but there was significant variation in the favoured duration of treatment of these drugs, and in the dose of RT. CONCLUSION: This survey suggests that there are still wide variations in the management practices for locally advanced prostate cancer in the UK, and between urologists and oncologists. Improved consensus guidelines are required.