Prostate Cancer: A Personalized Approach to Screening
PSA testing requires informed discussion.
Dr. Anne-Sophie Lefèvre
Oncologist
In simple terms
Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in men. Many cases are slow-growing and may not need immediate treatment.
What you need to remember
- Diagnostic pathway — Elevated PSA leads to MRI-targeted biopsy when needed.
- Active surveillance — Low-risk localized cancers can often be monitored rather than treated, sparing patients side effects without compromising survival.
- Treatment — Surgery, radiotherapy, androgen-deprivation therapy and newer hormonal agents (abiraterone, enzalutamide) tailor to disease stage and patient priorities.
PSA testing detects cancers earlier but also indolent ones. Shared decision-making between ages 50-70 (45 for high-risk men) balances benefits and harms.
Diagnostic pathway
Elevated PSA leads to MRI-targeted biopsy when needed. Genomic tests help estimate aggressiveness.
Active surveillance
Low-risk localized cancers can often be monitored rather than treated, sparing patients side effects without compromising survival.
Treatment
Surgery, radiotherapy, androgen-deprivation therapy and newer hormonal agents (abiraterone, enzalutamide) tailor to disease stage and patient priorities.
A single elevated PSA does not mean cancer: infection and benign enlargement are common causes.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Diagnosis
- The moment a doctor identifies which illness is causing your symptoms.
- Hormone
- A chemical messenger made by your body that tells organs what to do.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Prostate Cancer: A Personalized Approach to Screening?
- Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in men. Many cases are slow-growing and may not need immediate treatment.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Prostate Cancer: A Personalized Approach to Screening?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Prostate Cancer: A Personalized Approach to Screening?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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