Protecting Prostate Health Is a Partnership Between Patient and Physician

When it comes to early detection of prostate cancer, informed, shared decision-making is essential so people understand the benefıts and risks of screening.

Health decisions work best when they are made as a partnership between patient and physician.

In the United States, males have a 1-in-8 chance of eventually being diagnosed with prostate cancer, and a 1-in-41 chance of dying from it.

Fortunately, death rates have fallen by 52 percent from 1993 to 2018, largely thanks to early detection and improved treatment.

Prostate cancer early detection programs using prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for healthy people can turn up both slower- and faster-growing disease. There are recommended methods for reducing unnecessary biopsies and over-diagnosis, particularly for patients with mildly elevated PSA levels.

PSA testing for healthy, informed individuals is currently recommended at age 45-75 for average-risk people, and age 40-75 for those in higher-risk groups. Those higher-risk groups include: people with inherited genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA2), those with a family history of cancer (especially metastatic prostate cancer, breast cancer diagnosed by age 45, and ovarian cancer), and Black men.

High risk

Black men have a higher incidence of prostate cancer, increased prostate cancer mortality, and earlier age of diagnosis. Black men are much more likely to die from prostate cancer because of lower rates of screening and treatment for the disease. Genetics actually make up a very small percentage of the increased risk.

Additionally, it’s important that anyone with a prostate, regardless of their gender identity, have PSA screening discussions with their doctor.

Healthcare is personal. Prostate cancer screenings save lives, however, they can also lead to unnecessary anxiety, distress, or intervention-related side effects. Communication between patients and healthcare providers is key to making sure the right people receive the appropriate screening to safeguard their health.