Posted on 30/06/2009 in Industry related health news
Prostate cancer screening has "yet to prove its worth", according to a new report.
The research found the benefit of screening - with the prostate?specific antigen (PSA) blood test - was "at best small".
Because the cancer is virtually ubiquitous in men as they age, the goal of finding more cancers is "not acceptable".
In related research, published in the CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, it was found prostate cancer screening doubles the risk of lifetime diagnosis.
It discovered public health principles demand screening to reduce the risk of death from prostate cancer, reduce suffering and reduce health care costs when compared to non-screening.
However, the authors said screening had yet to meet one of these standards to date.
The researchers said: "Men should discuss the now quantifiable risks and benefits of having a PSA test with their physician and then share in making an informed decision.
"The weight of the decision should not be thrown into the patient's lap."
