The USPSTF Updates Prostate Screening Recommendation

The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force updated their prostate cancer screening recommendation in May 2018 after a controversial recommendation in 2012 against the screening. The recent update has moved their grade of the necessity of the screening from a "D" to a "C". The USPSTF now states "For men aged 55 to 69 years, the decision to undergo periodic prostate-specific antigen (PSA)–based screening for prostate cancer should be an individual one." They recommend that men discuss the potential benefits and harms of PSA screening with their doctors before making a decision. This is a positive move in the right direction by recognizing that screening can in fact be beneficial and should be an open conversation between patient and physician. For the official statement, visit https://screeningforprostatecancer.org/.

June 14, 2018