Prostate cancer screening advice just changed for men

NewsProstate cancer screening advice just changed. Here’s what men should knowNew American Cancer Society guidelines recommend PSA blood tests every two years for average-risk men ages 50 to 69. Black men and men with a strong family history of prostate cancer may need to begin screening earlier. Getty ImagesMen are getting new advice about when to be screened for prostate cancer. The American Cancer Society now recommends regular PSA blood tests for many middle-aged men, marking a major change from guidelines that had been in place since 2010. For men at average risk, the new guidance calls for a prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, test every two years from ages 50 through 69. Men should still understand the possible benefits and risks before starting screening, according to the American Cancer Society.Some men should start earlier. NBC News reports Black men and men with a strong family history of prostate cancer are advised to start annual PSA testing at age 45 because they face a higher risk of the disease. A PSA test measures a protein made by prostate cells. A high result does not automatically mean cancer because other conditions can raise PSA levels. AP reports doctors can repeat an elevated PSA test or use an MRI to help decide whether additional testing, including a biopsy, is necessary.For men ages 70 to 74, the decision becomes more personal. USA Today reports the new guidance recommends discussing continued screening with a health care provider. Routine screening is not recommended for men 75 and older. Why the change? Experts now have stronger evidence that PSA screening can find dangerous cancers earlier while newer approaches can reduce unnecessary procedures and treatment. The updated guidance is designed to lower deaths without returning to the widespread overtreatment that made PSA screening controversial in the past. Chris Pugh covers trending news and national breaking stories, focusing on the moments, conversations, and cultural flashpoints shaping the national news cycle. Chris worked as a digital reporter for...This article was produced with assistance from AI tools and reviewed by AL.com staff.