The High Authority for Health (HAS) ruled in 2010 that the benefit, in terms of overall mortality reduction, of systematic screening of Prostate cancer by the assay of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) was not demonstrated, and that “in an asymptomatic man, it is not recommended to offer screening for prostate cancer”. However, the percentage of men aged 40 and over without cancer identified and having at least one annual PSA dosage was in 2011 one of the highest in the world, according to a new study published in the Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin (BEH).
Between 2013 and 2015, 48% of men aged 40 and over had at least one dosage of PSA and they were around 90% in the 65-79 age group, according to figures from Health Insurance and the French urology association cited in the BEH. However, this practice is the cause of overdiagnosis and overtreatment of latent cancers, not very aggressive and with a good prognosis.
In 70% of cases, a high dosage of PSA is not linked to cancer
The PSA test measures the concentration of a prostate specific antigen (PSA) made by the prostate. Its presence in larger than normal quantities may indicate the presence of cancer. But it can also mark a milder disease.
A few weeks ago, the American actor Ben Stiller pleaded in favor of an early detection of prostate cancer because the dosage of PSA prescribed by his doctor when he was not considered to be a person at risk has ” literally save the life“.
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In the BEH, the experts recommend improving the information of the men concerned to enable them to make an informed choice and to engage in this process only with full knowledge of the facts. Recommendations which are also those of the National Cancer Institute:
“This screening exposes the risk of detecting and treating numerous prostate cancers that would have had no consequences for men and therefore would not have required treatment. Indeed, this cancer usually evolves slowly, over several years, many prostate cancers remain latent “ underlines the Inca in its brochure for patients. “However, the physical (risk of incontinence, impotence, intestinal disorders, etc.) and psychological consequences of the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer can be significant. ‘be reflected on and discussed with your doctor “ insists the Inca.
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