Active surveillance is considered a treatment option if a cancer is not causing any symptoms and is expected to grow slowly. In the past this approach was mainly suggested to elderly men, or men with serious health problems; however, younger men have started to consider this treatment option. Since prostate cancer often spreads very slowly, many men who have the disease may never require treatment. In many men, it is a means of delaying or deferring therapy and potential quality of life changes associated with current treatment options. Typically, patients on an active surveillance program undergo regular PSA measurements and periodic prostate biopsies to ensure that the cancer is not becoming more aggressive. If there is a change in the prostate cancer then the patient can make a decision to undergo active treatment with either surgery or radiation. Approximately 30% of cancers will progress within 5 years. The intent of active surveillance is curative.