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Late-Stage Cancers Rise: Rethink Canada's PSA Policy
4 Dec
Summary
- Incurable prostate cancer cases have risen significantly in Canada.
- Late-stage diagnoses increased by up to 65% after screening recommendations shifted.
- Experts debate if PSA tests lead to overdiagnosis or are essential.
A notable increase in late-stage prostate cancer cases in Canada is prompting calls to re-evaluate the nation's screening policies for this common male disease. Recent studies indicate a concerning rise in advanced cancers, while previously falling mortality rates have stalled. This trend has led some researchers to suggest that a reduction in screening may be a contributing factor.
Analysis shows that following shifts away from recommending prostate cancer screening, particularly in the early 2010s, cases of metastatic or stage four prostate cancer saw a substantial increase, rising by up to 65% in certain age groups. This period also coincided with a plateau in mortality rates, which had previously shown consistent declines.
However, this interpretation is contested. Some oncologists argue that falling mortality rates are more likely due to advances in cancer treatment rather than screening. They express concerns about the accuracy of PSA tests, highlighting the potential for overdiagnosis and the harms associated with unnecessary treatments, such as incontinence and sexual dysfunction.
