Private MD News

Too many doctors fail to mention PSA testing to patients, survey finds

Category: Prostate

Despite the fact that a few medical professionals doubt the usefulness of PSA testing, it remains the most effective way to diagnose prostate cancer, and most medical organizations recommend that men seek testing on a regular basis, particularly if their age or family history puts them in a high-risk group.

However, in spite of these benefits, many doctors told researchers in a recent survey conducted by the UK Prostate Cancer Charity that they do not offer regular PSA testing to their patients, according to The Telegraph.

The survey showed that one-tenth of doctors do not support the use of PSA testing, while another fifth never offer the procedure to their patients.

Charity officials told the news source that this is a troubling trend because most of the reliable research indicates that PSA testing is the most effective method for diagnosing prostate cancer in its early stages.

While recommendations for the frequency of PSA testing may vary among individuals, the National Cancer Institute says that all men should be informed of the benefits of regular testing.