Empirical estimates of prostate cancer overdiagnosis by age and prostate-specific antigen.

Author: Atoria-SwartzCoral, De KoningHarry, HeijnsdijkEveline A M, LiljaHans, RoobolMonique J, ScardinoPeter T, SjobergDaniel D, ThompsonIan, UlmertDavid, VertosickEmily, VickersAndrew J

Paper Details 
Original Abstract of the Article :
BACKGROUND: Prostate cancer screening depends on a careful balance of benefits, in terms of reduced prostate cancer mortality, and harms, in terms of overdiagnosis and overtreatment. We aimed to estimate the effect on overdiagnosis of restricting prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing by age and ba...See full text at original site
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引用元:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3922189/

データ提供:米国国立医学図書館(NLM)

Understanding Prostate Cancer Overdiagnosis: Age and PSA Levels

Prostate cancer screening, using prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, is a complex issue with potential benefits and harms. While screening can identify early-stage cancer, it also can lead to overdiagnosis and overtreatment, which may not be beneficial to patients. This study examines the impact of age and PSA levels on prostate cancer overdiagnosis, highlighting the importance of careful screening practices.

Age and PSA: Key Factors in Overdiagnosis

The study found a strong relationship between age and PSA levels and prostate cancer overdiagnosis. Restricting PSA testing to older men with higher PSA levels could significantly reduce overdiagnosis. The researchers suggest that limiting screening to men over 60 with PSA levels above the median and screening men over 70 only in selected circumstances would substantially reduce overdiagnosis. This approach would help to balance the benefits and harms of PSA screening.

Navigating the Complexities of Prostate Cancer Screening

This research underscores the importance of personalized medicine in prostate cancer screening. It's not a one-size-fits-all approach. The study emphasizes the need for careful consideration of individual factors, such as age and PSA levels, when making screening decisions. This approach helps to ensure that men receive the most appropriate and beneficial care. Just as a camel navigates the desert based on its own unique abilities and the characteristics of the terrain, medical professionals should tailor their screening practices to each patient's specific circumstances.

Dr.Camel's Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of carefully considering age and PSA levels when deciding who to screen for prostate cancer. The findings suggest that a more targeted screening approach could significantly reduce overdiagnosis, leading to more effective and less invasive treatments. This research contributes to the ongoing dialogue about the optimal strategies for prostate cancer screening and underscores the importance of individualizing care for each patient.

Date :
  1. Date Completed 2014-08-25
  2. Date Revised 2022-03-21
Further Info :

Pubmed ID

24512643

DOI: Digital Object Identifier

PMC3922189

Related Literature

SNS
PICO Info
in preparation
Languages

English

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