ABSTRACT
Decision-making is complex and involves processes comprising highly variable components; often these are unique to the individuals involved. It would be fair to say that the scientific analysis of decision-making by patients is in its infancy. Traditional expectations would pre-suppose that all patients receive the same factual information, that clinicians explaining treatment options would have only disinterested perceptions of best treatment, and that patients would have equivalent interests and expectations. Even in such rational and unbiased circumstances, decisions may be expected to differ. Outcomes, though notoriously variable for men with prostate cancer, are to some extent related to decisions and the factors that influence them. This chapter will consider factors that may influence decisions concerning prostate cancer management from medical, educational, and economic perspectives, as well as how “best” decisions may be facilitated.
