The USPSTF recommends that clinicians inform men ages 55 to 69 years about the potential benefits and harms of prostate-specific antigen (PSA)–based screening for prostate cancer.
The decision about whether to be screened for prostate cancer should be an individual one. Screening offers a small potential benefit of reducing the chance of dying of prostate cancer. However, many men will experience potential harms of screening, including false-positive results that require additional testing and possible prostate biopsy; overdiagnosis and overtreatment; and treatment complications, such as incontinence and impotence. The USPSTF recommends individualized decisionmaking about screening for prostate cancer after discussion with a clinician, so that each man has an opportunity to understand the potential benefits and harms of screening and to incorporate his values and preferences into his decision.
The USPSTF recommends against PSA-based screening for prostate cancer in men age 70 years and older.
African American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer are considered high risk and have different screening recommendations.
Of course, each patient has unique needs so the decision for screening tests can be individualized. Feel free to discuss your concerns with Dr. Lucas.