TL;DR: When Non-Treatment Is the Best Approach for Certain Cancers
Not all cancers need immediate treatment. For slow-growing, low-risk types like early-stage prostate or thyroid cancer, aggressive treatments can cause unnecessary harm. Instead, doctors may recommend active surveillance or watchful waiting, which focus on careful monitoring to balance risks and patient quality of life.
• Low-risk cancers often grow so slowly they may never cause harm.
• Treatments for resistant cancers may cause side effects without significant benefits.
• Modern diagnostic tools sometimes lead to overdiagnosis, detecting cancers that may not require intervention.
Understanding when less intervention is better aligns with patient health and well-being. For holistic support, focus on nutrition and lifestyle changes, discover Malta’s best healthy eateries via MELA’s directory. Start nourishing your body today!
Why Some Doctors Say There Are Cancers That Shouldn’t Be Treated
Cancer has always been a word that instills fear, but evolving research and medical perspectives are now reshaping how doctors approach certain types of cancers. Surprisingly, recent studies and clinical data are leading some experts to advocate for the non-treatment or observation of particular cancers. This might seem counterintuitive, but it represents a significant shift in how the medical community is balancing the risks of aggressive treatment with the realities of patient outcomes.
What Does “Non-Treatment” Really Mean?
When doctors suggest not treating a cancer, they’re not ignoring the disease. Instead, they’re leaning toward approaches like active surveillance or watchful waiting. These involve regular monitoring through imaging, blood tests, and physical exams without immediately resorting to surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.
Here’s why experts take this approach:
Low-Risk Cancers
Certain cancers, such as early-stage prostate cancer or some thyroid cancers, grow very slowly. Studies show that many of these may never cause harm, and aggressive treatment could do more damage than the disease itself.Quality of Life Concerns
Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation often come with severe side effects, fatigue, nausea, organ damage, that can drastically reduce a patient’s quality of life. For older patients or those with other severe illnesses, these side effects may outweigh the potential benefits.Cancers That Resist Treatment
Cancers such as pancreatic cancer or glioblastoma are notoriously resistant to treatment. Even when therapies are used, they rarely extend life significantly, leading some doctors to focus on patient comfort instead.Advancements in Detection
Modern diagnostic tools are identifying cancers earlier than ever before, including ones that might never have caused symptoms or shortened lifespans if left undiscovered. This phenomenon, known as overdiagnosis, has fueled a debate over when, not whether, to intervene.
How Research Supports Active Surveillance
Low-Grade Prostate Cancer
A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine showed that men with low-risk prostate cancer under active surveillance had similar survival rates to those who received immediate treatment over 10 years but without the debilitating side effects of surgery or radiation.Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Another study demonstrated that small, non-aggressive forms of thyroid cancer could remain stable for years without intervention. Monitoring was just as effective as immediate surgery, sparing patients from unnecessary risks.
Why Do Some Cancers Resist Treatment?
Treatment resistance is a major hurdle in oncology. For instance, pancreatic cancer often doesn’t respond to conventional therapies like chemotherapy due to its unique biology. Cancer cells can mutate quickly, develop drug resistance, and even hijack the body’s repair mechanisms to thrive despite medical intervention.
Researchers find that certain cancers also resist treatment due to:
- Genetic Makeup
Mutations in cancer cells may make them impervious to existing therapies. - Tumor Microenvironment
Components like dense stroma or low blood supply make it hard for drugs to penetrate the tumor. - Cancer’s Adaptation
Tumors often evolve to bypass treatments, rendering them ineffective over time.
Addressing Misconceptions: Why “Doing Nothing” Can Be the Best Choice
“It’s Giving Up”
Observing a cancer isn’t about neglect, it’s about tailored care that considers the risks and benefits.“All Cancers Are Fatal Without Treatment”
Many cancers can remain dormant or grow so slowly that they pose no significant threat, especially in older patients.“It’s Unethical to Not Treat”
Modern oncology emphasizes patient autonomy and quality of life. Discussing treatment benefits and risks allows patients to make informed decisions.
How Nutrition and Lifestyle Fit In for Non-Treated Cancers
For patients under active surveillance, lifestyle changes can play an important role in slowing cancer progression and improving overall health:
1. Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (found in flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish), along with antioxidant-packed vegetables like broccoli and kale, may help reduce systemic inflammation, which some studies suggest could slow tumor growth.
2. Stress Reduction
Practices like yoga and meditation lower cortisol levels, a stress hormone linked to cancer progression. Mind-body techniques may support physical and emotional resilience.
3. Maintaining Physical Activity
Exercise not only boosts the immune system but also regulates hormones, reduces obesity risk (a known cancer driver), and improves overall mental health.
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Closing Thoughts on Treating (Or Not Treating) Cancer
The idea that not all cancers demand immediate, aggressive treatment forces us to think about health differently. While treatments like chemotherapy and radiation remain lifesaving for many, the growing field of precision medicine is helping doctors identify when less intervention is actually more beneficial, for their patients’ well-being and longevity.
Whether you’re managing a cancer diagnosis or simply want to live more healthfully, the balance between proactive care and mindful patience offers much food for thought, literally and metaphorically. To support your journey, integrate healthy eating into your life. Start by exploring MELA’s curated list of Malta’s healthiest restaurants. Find spaces that value nourishment, community, and health as much as you do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Why Some Doctors Say There Are Cancers That Shouldn’t Be Treated
Why do some cancers not require immediate treatment?
Certain cancers, such as early-stage prostate cancer or papillary thyroid cancer, are considered “low-risk” because they grow very slowly and may never harm the patient. Treating these cancers aggressively with surgery or chemotherapy can result in side effects that significantly impair the patient’s quality of life. Doctors may instead recommend approaches like active surveillance or watchful waiting, which involve monitoring the cancer closely without immediate intervention. This strategy reduces unnecessary treatments and their side effects while focusing on maintaining a patient’s quality of life. For example, studies have found that men with low-risk prostate cancer who chose active surveillance had the same survival rates over a 10-year period as those who underwent immediate treatment.
Can observing cancer really be safe?
Yes, in some scenarios, observing cancer through regular monitoring is a safe and evidence-backed practice. Known as active surveillance, this approach includes periodic imaging, blood tests, and physical exams to keep track of any changes in the cancer’s size or behavior. Cancers detected at an early stage but proven to grow slowly, like certain thyroid or prostate cancers, are ideal candidates for this strategy. The goal is to minimize unnecessary side effects from aggressive interventions while maintaining the patient’s health and quality of life. However, active surveillance is not suitable for every type of cancer; it’s usually reserved for low-risk cases and requires close collaboration with your healthcare team.
What are “treatable but not curable” cancers?
These are cancers that cannot be eradicated entirely but can be managed with treatments to slow their progression or alleviate symptoms. Common examples include glioblastoma and advanced pancreatic cancer, which often resist conventional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. In such cases, the focus shifts from curing the disease to improving the patient’s comfort, extending lifespan, and ensuring dignity toward the end of life. Doctors and patients work together to decide on therapies that align with the patient’s values and goals, such as palliative care or targeted treatments aimed at maintaining quality of life.
Why do some cancers develop treatment resistance?
Treatment resistance occurs when cancer cells adapt to and overcome the effects of therapies, rendering them ineffective. This resistance can happen due to genetic mutations, the tumor’s biological environment, or cancer cells evolving to bypass a specific drug mechanism. For example, pancreatic cancer often forms a dense barrier of tissue that prevents chemotherapy drugs from reaching the tumor. Research into treatment resistance is ongoing, with some promising studies exploring drug combinations or therapies that target resistant cells directly. Understanding and managing this resistance is central to improving cancer care.
Can lifestyle changes play a role during active surveillance of cancer?
Absolutely. Lifestyle choices can have a significant impact on the progression of certain cancers under active surveillance. Anti-inflammatory foods, regular exercise, and stress-reduction techniques like yoga and meditation are key components of this approach. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like flaxseeds and fatty fish, may help reduce systemic inflammation, while physical activity improves hormonal regulation and immune function. Incorporating these habits may not only slow cancer progression but also improve overall health, resilience, and quality of life during the monitoring phase.
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What role does early detection play in cancer management?
While early detection saves lives, it can also lead to a phenomenon called overdiagnosis. Modern diagnostic technologies now identify cancers that may never cause symptoms or harm within a patient’s lifetime. For example, small papillary thyroid cancers are often detected incidentally and grow so slowly that immediate treatment is rarely necessary. Overdiagnosis poses a challenge because unnecessary treatments expose patients to risks without significant benefits. Discussing the risks and benefits with your doctor is essential to making informed decisions about when, and how aggressively, to treat certain cancers.
How does the MELA AI platform support proactive health choices?
MELA AI is a valuable resource for individuals prioritizing health-conscious dining in Malta and Gozo. As more cancer patients and health-focused diners turn to anti-inflammatory foods and balanced nutrition, MELA AI’s curated directory highlights restaurants that adhere to these principles. Offering options like nutrient-packed meals, ingredient transparency, and MELA-recognized establishments, the platform bridges the gap between dining enjoyment and wellness goals. Discover health-focused dining options with MELA AI and support your health journey today.
Are there restaurants in Malta offering meals aligned with anti-inflammatory diets?
Yes, the growing interest in health-conscious dining has led several restaurants in Malta and Gozo to adapt their menus to meet these needs. Many establishments are now offering anti-inflammatory, nutrient-rich meals to cater to diners seeking cancer-supportive or overall wellness diets. The MELA AI platform not only lists these restaurants but also awards them the MELA sticker, signifying their commitment to healthier dining. Explore MELA AI-recognized restaurants to find establishments that prioritize healthy meals.
How do doctors decide when less treatment is more beneficial?
Deciding not to treat certain cancers or delaying intervention requires a careful analysis of the risks and benefits. Doctors consider factors like the cancer’s growth rate, whether it’s likely to spread, the patient’s age, overall health, and personal preferences. For example, elderly patients with multiple health conditions may avoid aggressive treatments that could lead to significant side effects, prioritizing comfort and quality of life instead. Regular communication between patients and healthcare providers helps ensure that treatment strategies align with the patient’s goals.
What role does patient autonomy play in cancer treatment decisions?
Patient autonomy is central in modern oncology. Physicians strive to present all treatment options, including the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives like active surveillance. Patients are encouraged to weigh these factors against their values, lifestyle, and personal goals. This shared decision-making process fosters trust and ensures that patients feel empowered and involved in their care decisions. Balancing medical expertise with respect for patient choices leads to personalized, compassionate cancer care that addresses both physical and emotional needs.
About the Author
Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur. Throughout her startup experience she has applied for multiple startup grants at the EU level, in the Netherlands and Malta, and her startups received quite a few of those. She’s been living, studying and working in many countries around the globe and her extensive multicultural experience has influenced her immensely.
Violetta Bonenkamp’s expertise in CAD sector, IP protection and blockchain
Violetta Bonenkamp is recognized as a multidisciplinary expert with significant achievements in the CAD sector, intellectual property (IP) protection, and blockchain technology.
CAD Sector:
- Violetta is the CEO and co-founder of CADChain, a deep tech startup focused on developing IP management software specifically for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) data. CADChain addresses the lack of industry standards for CAD data protection and sharing, using innovative technology to secure and manage design data.
- She has led the company since its inception in 2018, overseeing R&D, PR, and business development, and driving the creation of products for platforms such as Autodesk Inventor, Blender, and SolidWorks.
- Her leadership has been instrumental in scaling CADChain from a small team to a significant player in the deeptech space, with a diverse, international team.
IP Protection:
- Violetta has built deep expertise in intellectual property, combining academic training with practical startup experience. She has taken specialized courses in IP from institutions like WIPO and the EU IPO.
- She is known for sharing actionable strategies for startup IP protection, leveraging both legal and technological approaches, and has published guides and content on this topic for the entrepreneurial community.
- Her work at CADChain directly addresses the need for robust IP protection in the engineering and design industries, integrating cybersecurity and compliance measures to safeguard digital assets.
Blockchain:
- Violetta’s entry into the blockchain sector began with the founding of CADChain, which uses blockchain as a core technology for securing and managing CAD data.
- She holds several certifications in blockchain and has participated in major hackathons and policy forums, such as the OECD Global Blockchain Policy Forum.
- Her expertise extends to applying blockchain for IP management, ensuring data integrity, traceability, and secure sharing in the CAD industry.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the “gamepreneurship” methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond, launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks and is building MELA AI to help local restaurants in Malta get more visibility online.
For the past several years Violetta has been living between the Netherlands and Malta, while also regularly traveling to different destinations around the globe, usually due to her entrepreneurial activities. This has led her to start writing about different locations and amenities from the POV of an entrepreneur. Here’s her recent article about the best hotels in Italy to work from.
