Men with early prostate cancer may neglect other illness

January 27, 2009 It's been known that the majority of men with early stage low or moderate grade prostate cancer die from causes other than the cancer. But sometimes they become so concerned with that illness they don't pay attention to other health concerns, so says the Journal of the American Geriatric Society.

Researchers say prevention and management of other health conditions is important in these patients. They add that's because earlier cancer diagnoses due to screening and improvements in treatment have been associated with lower cancer mortality.

Researchers say, as a result, patients are living longer after a cancer diagnosis-- to the point where other illness may have a substantial effect on their survival.