ABSTRACT
External-beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and radical prostatectomy (RP) have been the most common primary treatments for localized prostate cancer. There is no convincing evidence available to show that either treatment is more effective in saving quantity of life than the other. A recent report of a trial comparing RP and expectant management showed a significant reduction of prostate cancer mortality after RP, but a trial comparing RP and EBRT is not yet available1. Quality of life (QoL) issues become decisive in this situation.
