The suggestion is supported by two studies conducted by Prostate Cancer UK, which demonstrated that, despite being previously thought to be unreliable, tests that measure PSA levels “reduce the number of men who die” from the condition.
PSA tests are now available to men who exhibit signs of prostate cancer, but they cannot be proactively offered to high-risk men who do not exhibit any symptoms, such as men over 50, Black men, or men with a family history of the disease.
Invasive biopsies and other unnecessary testing and procedures are avoided for cancer-free people as a result.
According to the NHS, numerous non-cancerous illnesses can elevate PSA levels, but doctors are unable to determine whether cancer is the cause or not based on the test results.
However, current recommendations are “undoubtedly driving up late diagnosis” and creating “massive inequality across the UK,” according to Dr. Matthew Hobbs, director of research at Prostate Cancer UK.
“Historically, the evidence that PSA testing saved lives was weak and there was strong evidence that testing caused harm,” said Dr. Hobbs.
“Now that things have changed, we have solid proof from two different studies that PSA testing does lower the number of men who pass away from prostate cancer.”
