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Microarray-based Identification of Individual HERV Loci Expression: Application to Biomarker Discovery in Prostate Cancer
Published on: November 2, 2013
Optimal prostate-specific antigen screening interval for prostate cancer
D Kobayashi1, O Takahashi2, T Fukui2
1Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, St Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo.
Summary
For men over 50, repeat prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening intervals depend on baseline levels. Men with PSA 3.0-3.9 ng/ml should be rescreened in 2 years; others can wait 3+ years. PSA screening is not recommended for men under 50.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Preventive Medicine
- Oncology
Background:
- Prostate cancer screening guidelines often lack specific recommendations for repeat prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing intervals.
- Determining optimal PSA testing frequency is crucial for early detection while minimizing overdiagnosis and overtreatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the optimal interval for repeat prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing in healthy adult males for prostate cancer screening.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective cohort study analyzed 7332 healthy males from 2005-2008 undergoing annual PSA testing.
- Subgroup analysis was performed based on age (<50 and ≥50 years) and baseline PSA levels (≥4.0 ng/ml triggered further examination).
Main Results:
- In men ≥50 years, 3-year cumulative prostate cancer incidence varied by baseline PSA: 0% (<1.0 ng/ml), 0.1% (1.0-1.9 ng/ml), 0.3% (2.0-2.9 ng/ml), and 5.7% (3.0-3.9 ng/ml).
- No prostate cancer was detected in men <50 years, irrespective of baseline PSA levels.
Conclusions:
- For men >50 years with baseline PSA 3.0-3.9 ng/ml, a 2-year rescreening interval is suggested.
- Men >50 years with PSA <3.0 ng/ml may have appropriate rescreening intervals of 3 years or longer.
- PSA screening appears unnecessary for men <50 years of age.
