Disqualify the prostate exam by blood

• April 29, 2024

A high level of Prostate Specific Antigen (APE) could mean that a man has prostate cancer . However, other diseases other than cancer (such as enlargement benign of the prostate waves Urinary infections ) may also cause high levels of PSA in the blood.

The National Prevention Committee of the United Kingdom ensures that, after studying several cases, it is not advisable to diagnose this male cancer using a blood test that determines the amount of APE.

The measurement of the PSA has generated controversy, because its results could indicate a wrong diagnosis . Similarly, a normal PSA index does not guarantee that there is no tumor, so the Cancer I could go unnoticed. Although this test is not offered routinely, men over 50 can request one.

A correct decision

When making the announcement, the director of the Prevention Committee , doctor Anne Mackie , says to be sure of having made the correct decision: "This notification is based on recent evidence and has already been communicated to the interested parties, which include patients and health professionals".

The prostate is the most common cancer suffered by men. In addition, it is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in several countries. Each year, some are diagnosed 35.000 men with prostate cancer and it is estimated that 10.000 They have died because of the disease.

Hazel Nunn , of the Cancer Research UK, He said: "There is not enough evidence to indicate that the PSA test would benefit the population, beyond putting it at risk."

"But we need to know urgently if some men could take advantage of this test."

For his part, John Neate, executive director of Prostate Cancer Charity, He says that - although the decision does not surprise him - the announcement is very disappointing. "

"Although the results warn that the test could lead to exaggerated diagnoses and treatments, we know that for some men with advanced prostate cancer who have no symptoms, the PSA test would be the only early indicator of cancer that would allow for effective treatment."

Sources: BBC World