Boost for prostate cancer screening - latest study shows it cuts death from the disease by up to 31%
Latest analysis from the European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer shows true impact of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing is far higher than previously reported - up to 31%. >more
ERSPC is the world’s largest randomized trial. It was designed to investigate whether early detection and treatment of prostate cancer might reduce disease-specific mortality and also help to identify men at risk.
Patients need ‘personal risk assessment’ says ERSPC, as second study confirms it reduces unnecessary biopsies by 33%.
Research shows PSA cut off level of 3ng/ml is safer threshold for reducing biopsies. >more
From 1992, the ERSPC study randomized 162,000 men, aged 55 to 69, across Europe to either a screening arm or a control group. Those screened were given a blood test to detect PSA levels: if it was 3.0ng/ml or more, they were offered a biopsy. Screening took place on average every four years. Mean follow-up was nine years.
Original participating countries and details on specific protocols within each country: Belgium, Finland, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
To screen or not to screen?
Prof Chris Bangma sets this challenge for health authorities in response to the ERSPC study into the benefits of population-based screening for prostate cancer.