For men 50 years and older, the decision to undergo prostate cancer screening can often be a difficult decision due to the varying pros and cons associated with testing. Although the prostate-specific antigen test, or PSA test, is currently the main screening method used to detect prostate cancer, it may not be right for everyone.
One of the many reasons the screening decision is so tricky is because unlike other cancers, prostate cancer is so slow growing that some men who have it will never be affected or harmed by it.
Due to the risk of urinary problems and erectile dysfunction associated with various treatment options for the disease, men who decide to be screened for prostate cancer could sustain permanent impairments from treating a cancer they never would have known they had.
Although the results of a large, long-term study did not support widespread screening for prostate cancer due to concerns of over diagnosis, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor about all the pros and cons that accompany PSA testing to determine if screening is right for you and your lifestyle.
When discussing screenings with your doctor, be sure to ask all questions you have about the screening process and treating prostate cancer while weighing factors such as your health, age and family history in the decision-making process.
Columbus CyberKnife treats prostate cancer with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) using CyberKnife® technology, an advanced radiation approach that can be completed in five or fewer treatments. For more information on CyberKnife treatment for prostate cancer, click here.
This is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your health care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.