What are the risk groups of prostate cancer and what do they mean?

A consultant urologist will review your symptoms and test results to determine what risk group you are of prostate cancer. Your risk group is a way to categorise the severity of your case and will help inform what treatment options you are offered.

There are 3 general risk groups based on the PSA level, Digital Rectal Examination, MRI results and biopsy, and these will determine what treatment your doctor recommends:

1. Low risk: Tumour is confined to the prostate, and the PSA is <10 and grade group 1 (Gleason 6). Your doctor may recommend active surveillance or watchful waiting.
2. Intermediate risk: Tumour is confined to the prostate, the PSA is between 10 and 20, or grade group 2 or 3 (Gleason 7). Your doctor may recommend active surveillance or watchful waiting, and only start treatment if the cancer starts to grow.
3. High risk: Tumour extends outside the prostate, the PSA >20, or grade group 4 or 5 (Gleason 8 to 10). Your doctor will recommend treatment which might include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, HIFU or hormone therapy.