PSA Update

New research may simplify the PSA decision for some men.
According to the New York Times (9/27, D1, Parker-Pope) "Well" blog appearing on the front of the Science Times section, the decision to take "regular PSA tests" is "not an easy choice," considering that "studies show that the screening saves few, if any, lives." What's more, the test "often" pinpoints "cellular changes in the prostate that meet the technical definition of cancer," but "are so slow-growing that if left alone they will never cause harm." Now, researchers may be able to "offer simple, practical advice -- at least for men 60 and older." According to a paper in BMJ, "a man's PSA score at the age of 60 can strongly predict his lifetime risk of dying of prostate cancer." In addition, "at least half of men who are now screened after age 60 don't need to be, the study authors said."