"Most men with localised prostate cancer have multiple treatment options, each with their own set of potential risks and benefits" says Dr Nguyen. "While many patients are grateful for the chance to select their treatment, some may subsequently regret their treatment if the outcomes after therapy do not meet their expectations.

"Our study found that, among men with recurrent prostate cancer, those with cardiovascular health issues were 52 per cent more likely to regret their treatment choice than men without cardiovascular problems. It highlights the growing importance of considering other health issues such as cardiovascular disease when counseling patients about prostate cancer treatment options.

"The clinical implication of the present study is that it provides another rationale for patients with cardiovascular problems and prostate cancer to consider active surveillance, which aims to avoid or delay unnecessary treatment in men with less aggressive cancers. This is because the potential benefit of treatment is relatively small for men with a short life expectancy and the potential for regret is significantly higher.

"Our research also suggests that prostate cancer patients with cardiovascular issues should be alerted to the potential increased risk of post-treatment toxicity, such as bowel problems, as this may help to reduce treatment regret if their cancer returns."

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