ACS issues new prostate cancer screening guidelines

Looks like the USA are taking a step back and involving shared decision making between clinicians and patients for starters which has to be a good thing.

The updated guidelines include these recommendations:

•Asymptomatic men who have at least a ten-year life expectancy should have an opportunity to make an informed decision with their health care provider about screening for prostate cancer after receiving information about the uncertainties, risks, and potential benefits associated with screening.

•Men at average risk should receive this information beginning at age 50.

•Men at higher risk, including African American men and men with a first degree relative (father or brother) diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65, should receive this information beginning at age 45.

•Men at appreciably higher risk (multiple family members diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65) should receive this information beginning at age 40.

•Men should either receive this information directly from their health care providers or be referred to reliable and culturally appropriate sources.

•Patient decision aids are helpful in preparing men to make a decision whether to be tested.

•Prostate cancer screening should not occur without an informed decision making process.

•Asymptomatic men who have less than a ten-year life expectancy based on age and health status should not be offered prostate cancer screening.

•For men who are unable to decide, the screening decision can be left to the discretion of the health care provider, who should factor into the decision his or her knowledge of the patient’s general health preferences and values

The "New" Prostate Cancer InfoLink article/viewpoint

American Cancer Society Article