A new study published in the July 2025 issue of JNCCN brings hopeful news for men diagnosed with nonmetastatic prostate cancer. Researchers found that men treated according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Clinical Practice Guidelines have a strong chance of surviving their cancer and living a full life.
The study examined records of 62,839 men in Sweden diagnosed between 2000 and 2020. More than 90% of those with low-risk, nonmetastatic prostate cancer lived out their full life expectancy without dying from the disease. Even patients with higher-risk prostate cancer had a survival chance exceeding 65%, provided they had a life expectancy over three years.
Patients were grouped by cancer risk, life expectancy, and whether their treatment followed NCCN guidelines. The results were clear: men with low- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer were six times more likely to die from causes other than prostate cancer. Even men with high-risk cancer were twice as likely to die from other causes.
Lead researcher Dr. Pietro Scilipoti from Uppsala University in Sweden and IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital in Italy said, “Our data support following guideline-recommended treatment for prostate cancer. Most patients live many years after diagnosis. Active surveillance is an excellent option for those who qualify.”
The study used detailed data from Sweden’s National Prostate Cancer Register. This included cancer grading, staging, treatments, and other health conditions. Researchers also estimated life expectancy based on age and health, and used the national Cause of Death Register for mortality information.
Dr. Ahmad Shabsigh of The Ohio State University, who was not involved in the study but serves on the NCCN Guidelines Panel, said, “This study is a relief for men with prostate cancer. It shows that with NCCN guideline treatment, you’re much more likely to die from something other than cancer — even if your cancer is high-risk.”
Importantly, men with low-risk prostate cancer who chose active surveillance had only about an 11% chance of dying from prostate cancer over 30 years. This highlights the value of evidence-based treatments and focusing on overall health, not just cancer.
Overall, the study confirms that following clinical guidelines leads to effective, personalized care. It offers reassurance to patients and doctors about the long-term outlook for prostate cancer when treatment is carefully managed.
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