« Back to Glossary Index

A way of monitoring cancer that is slow growing or indolent, rather than treating it straight away. During this time, regular testing is undertaken to check the growth and spread of the cancer. Some patients find this treatment approach difficult to understand; however, many tumours, particularly in older people, do not cause problems for the patient, and watchful waiting enables them to avoid the debilitating side effects of some cancer treatments. Also called active surveillance and watch and wait.

« Back to Glossary Index