13. Watchful Waiting – A Considered Approach
Watchful waiting, or active surveillance, is a strategy often employed for low-risk thyroid cancers. Rather than immediate intervention, this approach involves closely monitoring the patient’s condition without providing treatment unless symptoms appear or change. This might seem counterintuitive, but in certain cases, it can be a suitable option.
The principle behind watchful waiting lies in the nature of certain thyroid cancers. Some forms of the disease, such as small, low-risk papillary thyroid cancers, often progress very slowly and may not cause symptoms or health problems for many years. In these cases, the potential risks and side effects of immediate treatment might outweigh the potential benefits.
During watchful waiting, patients undergo regular examinations, including physical exams, blood tests, and imaging studies, to monitor for any changes in their condition. If the cancer shows signs of growing or causing symptoms, treatment can begin immediately.
Watchful waiting is a personal decision and should be made after a thorough discussion with the healthcare team. Factors to consider include the patient’s overall health, the type and stage of the cancer, and the patient’s comfort with this approach. It’s an option that illustrates the importance of individualized treatment plans, recognizing that the best approach to cancer care may vary from person to person. (13)
