In reversal, American Cancer Society urges prostate cancer tests for all men
Summary
The American Cancer Society now recommends routine prostate cancer screening with PSA blood tests, with starting age and frequency based on age, race, and family history. The updated guidance also recommends confirming elevated PSA results and using MRI or a biomarker test before considering a biopsy, while advising active surveillance for low-risk cancers.Key Facts
- Men at average risk should get a PSA test every two years from ages 50 through 69.
- Black men should begin yearly PSA testing at age 45.
- Non-Black men with a close relative diagnosed before age 65, or with multiple relatives who had prostate cancer, should begin yearly testing at age 45.
- Non-Black men with one close relative diagnosed at age 65 or older should start testing at 45 and get tested every two years.
- Men ages 70 to 74 should consult their doctor about continuing screening; screening is not recommended for men 75 and older.
- The guidelines recommend repeating an elevated PSA test before further evaluation; if it remains high, an MRI or validated biomarker test can help assess risk before biopsy.
- Active surveillance is recommended as the initial approach for men whose prostate cancer appears unlikely to grow or spread.
- The American Cancer Society estimates that nearly 334,000 U.S. men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2026 and more than 36,320 will die from it.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
