The implementation of screening for prostate cancer

Prostate Cancer Prostatic Dis. 2010 Sep;13(3):218-27. doi: 10.1038/pcan.2010.14. Epub 2010 Aug 3.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine whether screening for prostate cancer (PC) reduces PC mortality and, if so, whether the required criteria to be introduced as a population-based screening program are satisfied. A literature review was conducted through electronic scientific databases. The screening tests, that is, PSA and digital rectal examination, have limited sensitivity and specificity for detecting PC; screening produces a beneficial stage shift and reduces PC mortality. Nevertheless, PC screening causes a large increase in the cumulative incidence, and the understanding of the economic cost and quality-of-life parameters are limited. PC screening cannot be justified yet in the context of a public health policy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Digital Rectal Examination*
  • Health Plan Implementation*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mass Screening / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Mass Screening / methods
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen / blood*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / diagnosis*

Substances

  • Prostate-Specific Antigen