Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026
05:19
A New Technique for Treating Low-risk Prostate Cancer—Super Active Surveillance
Published on: November 7, 2025
Prostate cancer: to screen or not to screen?
Alex Shteynshlyuger1, Gerald L Andriole
1Division of Urologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Siteman Cancer Center, 4960 Children's Place, Campus Box 8242, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
The Urologic Clinics of North America
|February 16, 2010
Summary
Population-based prostate cancer screening offers limited benefits and incurs substantial costs. Future improvements in screening markers and treatment selection could enhance its effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Oncology
- Public Health
Background:
- Population-based prostate cancer screening has been debated for decades.
- Current evidence indicates limited benefits and significant costs associated with widespread screening.
- Existing screening strategies face challenges in balancing efficacy and patient harm.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the current evidence on the benefits and harms of population-based prostate cancer screening.
- To discuss the limitations of current screening approaches.
- To explore potential avenues for improving the effectiveness of prostate cancer screening.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature on prostate cancer screening.
- Analysis of data regarding screening efficacy, patient outcomes, and associated costs.
- Evaluation of emerging biomarkers and treatment strategies for prostate cancer.
Main Results:
- Current population-based screening for prostate cancer demonstrates limited overall benefit.
- Screening is associated with significant psychological, physical, and financial burdens for individuals.
- The effectiveness of screening is constrained by current diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities.
Conclusions:
- The utility of broad population-based prostate cancer screening remains questionable due to limited benefits and substantial costs.
- Further research and development of improved screening biomarkers are crucial.
- More selective screening approaches and refined treatment protocols may enhance the value of prostate cancer screening programs.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Men's health issues are increasingly recognized as significant, with several conditions posing common threats. Among these, testicular cancer is especially prevalent in younger men, particularly those aged 20 to 35 years. The disease often manifests as a painless mass in the testicles, sometimes accompanied by a sensation of heaviness or a dull ache.
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra. Symptoms...
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra. Symptoms...
01:30Preventive Healthcare Services
Preventive healthcare services keep people healthy via frequent check-ups, screening, and counseling. They primarily aid in disease prevention rather than treating an acute or chronic illness. Preventive treatment also keeps individuals productive and energetic, allowing them to work well into their retirement years. Examples of preventive care services include:
02:59Cancer Prevention
Several factors can increase the risk of cancer in an individual. About 50% of cancer cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, eating healthy, and following a modest cancer prevention diet. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown that populations with vegetable and fruit-rich diets have reduced the incidence of cancer. On the other hand, populations who have a diet rich in animal fat, red meat, junk food, or high calories are predisposed to cancer.
Some...
Some...
02:59Cancer Prevention
Several factors can increase the risk of cancer in an individual. About 50% of cancer cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, eating healthy, and following a modest cancer prevention diet. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown that populations with vegetable and fruit-rich diets have reduced the incidence of cancer. On the other hand, populations who have a diet rich in animal fat, red meat, junk food, or high calories are predisposed to cancer.
Some...
Some...
01:25Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT
Calcium-Scoring CT ScanA calcium-scoring CT scan, also known as coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, detects calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. This test assesses the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to cardiovascular events such as angina, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest.A calcium-scoring CT scan is generally recommended for individuals at intermediate risk of CAD without symptoms. It includes:Men aged 40-75 and women aged 50-75: Especially those with a...