What are the pros and cons of having the PSA test?
Pros of PSA Screening Cons of PSA Screening The PSA test can help diagnose prostate cancer early. Many types of prostate cancer are slow growing and may not cause health problems. Having the test can provide some men with reassurance. A false-negative result, or when the PSA is low but cancer is still present, can lead to a missed diagnosis when treatment is actually needed. Prostate cancer is more likely to respond to treatment and be cured when diagnosed in an early stage. There is controversy as to whether PSA screening is linked to decreased deaths from prostate cancer. [Back to Top] 6. What if the results of prostate cancer screening indicate I need further tests? You may feel anxious over the possibility of more tests, but most men who go for further testing do not have cancer. If your PSA test or DRE suggests a problem, your doctor may refer you to a urologist. Additional testing will help determine if the problem is cancer or something else.
