9.2. Prostate Cancer

Updated 2 October 2025

 

Title: Standard Operating Procedure for Surveillance of Prostate Cancer

 

Effective Date: [Date]

Version: 1.0

Prepared by: [Name/Department]

Approved by: [Name/Department]

 

Status 

Definition 

A

Tested / reflects current policy and updates

B

Possible gaps / may not reflect latest policies and updates / users need to apply due diligence

C

Outline / being updated / users should cross reference other materials (job aids, training resources)

D

Draft / consider as being under development 

E

Work in progress / template created

1. Introduction

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) provides guidelines for the surveillance of prostate cancer in Grenada. It is designed to support healthcare practitioners, including doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, in delivering comprehensive and standardized prostate cancer care.

2. Objectives

  • To establish a surveillance system for prostate cancer to assist with planning

3. Scope

This SOP applies to all healthcare facilities and practitioners involved in the care and management of prostate cancer patients in Grenada. While treatment for prostate cancers may be accessed outside of the countries for patients of Grenada, it is unlikely that this document will be used within this scope.

4. Definitions

 

5. Surveillance Procedures

5.1 Step 1: Detection - Healthcare Providers / Laboratory Personnel

Clinically evaluate and identify cancer cases 

  • Conduct thorough clinical assessments based on the patient’s history, symptoms, and physical examination. Key variables to report includes – name, date of birth, date of onset of symptoms, weight, blood pressure, and state of hair, nails, and skin.
  • Identify key symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, persistent pain, fatigue, and changes in skin or moles.

Diagnostic Testing 

To confirm, take samples as required and send to laboratory/ schedule relevant tests (in accordance with the presiding physician)

  • Utilize imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds to detect tumours.
  • Perform biopsies to obtain tissue samples for histopathological examination.
  • Conduct laboratory tests, including blood tests and tumour markers, to support diagnosis.
  • Use endoscopic procedures for cancers of the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system.

Follow-Up

  • Schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor treatment response, manage side effects, and detect recurrences.
  • Perform routine imaging and laboratory tests to assess the effectiveness of treatment.
  • Adjust treatment plans based on patient response and disease progression.

5.2 Step 2: Reporting 

  • Collate information on the daily reporting form, to be tallied in the weekly reporting form. Information includes:
    • Name of patient
    • Date of birth
    • Address
    • Name of medical institution
    • Diagnosis (Stage of cancer)
    • Medical History
    • Family History
    • Medication / Procedures
    • Risk factors (weight, height (BMI), level of physical activity, waist and  hip circumference, alcohol consumption.
    • Exposure
    • Send weekly reporting form to Epidemiology Unit 

 

5.3. Step 3: Data Management 

  • Data should be cleaned and analysed
  • Preparation of a report should be done on the evolution of the epidemiological situation of the disease
  • Dissemination of a weekly/monthly situation report 

6. Ethical Care:

  • Provide non-judgmental and supportive care to all patients.
  • Address ethical dilemmas and ensure patient autonomy and rights are respected.
  • Provide care that is culturally sensitive and respectful of patient beliefs and practices.
  • Engage with patients and their families to understand their preferences and needs.

7. References

  • World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines:
    • WHO guidelines provide comprehensive recommendations for cancer prevention and management.
  • National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Guidelines:
    • NCCN guidelines offer evidence-based practices for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
  • American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Guidelines:
    • ASCO guidelines provide recommendations for cancer care and research.
  • Ministry of Health, Grenada:
    • Local health policies and regulations provide context-specific guidance for cancer management.