How Does Active Surveillance Differ from Watchful Waiting?
While both active surveillance and watchful waiting involve monitoring cancer without immediate treatment, there are key differences. Active surveillance is more structured and involves regular and detailed monitoring with the intent to treat if necessary. Watchful waiting, on the other hand, is generally less intensive and is often used when the goal is to manage symptoms rather than to cure the disease, usually in older patients or those with significant co-morbidities.
