PSA Screening for Prostate Cancer: What Men Need to Know

From torrancememorial.org

Understanding when to get tested, updated guidelines, and how shared decision-making helps personalize prostate cancer screening

Prostate cancer awareness has increased in recent years, with athletes, celebrities, and public figures sharing their diagnoses. As a result, more men are asking an important question: Should I be screened for prostate cancer?

The most common screening tool is the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test, which measures a protein produced by the prostate gland. However, PSA testing is not as straightforward as many assume.

“We used to screen everyone using a PSA blood test, but we found that the number of false positives was causing unnecessary anxiety and follow-up testing,” said Brian Stone, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician at Torrance Memorial Physician Network.

Updated PSA Screening Guidelines

Current recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) emphasize shared decision-making rather than routine screening for all men.

• Most men should discuss PSA screening between ages 55 and 69
• Screening decisions should be based on individual risk factors and preferences

This approach helps balance the benefits of early detection with the risks of overdiagnosis and unnecessary procedures.

Who May Need Earlier Prostate Cancer Screening?

Some men may benefit from earlier or more frequent screening based on elevated risk.

Risk factors include:

• Family history of prostate cancer
• African American race
• Genetic predisposition
• Smoking history
• Known hereditary cancer syndromes

“Men who are at higher risk may benefit from earlier screening,” said Dr. Stone. “We work with each patient to create a personalized plan.”

What Happens If Your PSA Test Is Elevated?

A higher-than-normal PSA level does not automatically mean cancer.

Today, additional diagnostic tools can help reduce unnecessary procedures, including:

• Repeat PSA testing
• Advanced blood-based biomarkers
• Urine-based testing
• MRI imaging in select cases

These tools help improve accuracy and reduce overtreatment.

The Importance of Shared Decision-Making

There is no one-size-fits-all answer for PSA screening.

Your provider will consider:

• Age
• Risk factors
• Family history
• Personal preferences
• Overall health status

“If you have questions about whether you should be screened for prostate cancer, your primary care provider can help you make the best decision for your health,” said Dr. Stone.

https://www.torrancememorial.org/healthy-living/blog/psa-screening-prostate-cancer-guide/