Us TOO International Responds to New Prostate Cancer PSA Screening Recommendation from USPSTF

CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#MensHealth–Us TOO International has reviewed the latest draft statement from the
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) which provides a “C”
recommendation for prostate-specific antigen (PSA)–based screening for
prostate cancer for men who are between 55 and 69 years of age. This is
an improvement over the previous “D” recommendation issued by the task
force in 2012, which advised against all PSA screening. The new
statement also recognizes that the decision on whether or not to have a
PSA test should be specific to each individual and an informed decision
following a conversation between a man and his physician.

However, the recommended age range for testing overlooks the benefit of
PSA screening for men who are older and younger. Consideration should
also be given to men who are 70 and older, especially those continuing
to monitor their PSA level as part of a routine annual physical.
Moreover, the statement recognizes that African American men and men
with advanced prostate cancer in their families are at a higher risk for
prostate cancer, but it does not provide any guidance or recommendation
for testing these men at an earlier age.

“While we’re pleased to see that the USPSTF has acknowledged the value
of PSA testing, the recommendation leaves gaps in how to effectively
address screening – especially in high-risk populations that also
include military veterans exposed to Agent Orange,” said Us TOO
International CEO Chuck Strand. “Guidelines are needed to ensure that
all men have the opportunity to make an informed decision on whether or
not to have a PSA test.”

The draft recommendation statement and draft evidence reviews are
available for review and public comment from April 11 through May 8,
2017. The Task Force has developed answers to frequently asked
questions, a fact sheet, and infographic to help clarify the draft
recommendations. To access this information, review the draft
recommendation statement and submit comments, go to: www.screeningforprostatecancer.org.
We encourage those affected by prostate cancer to provide input on this
important matter.

About Us TOO International

Us TOO is a nonprofit organization founded in 1990 that provides
educational resources and support services to the prostate cancer
community at no charge to help men and their spouses/partners and loved
ones make informed decisions about prostate cancer detection, treatment
options and related side effects. In addition to more than 200 support
groups throughout the U.S. and abroad, Us TOO provides monthly
newsletters, educational events, Inspire online support community,
toll-free HelpLine, printed materials and a comprehensive website (www.ustoo.org).

Contacts

Us TOO International
Tim Mix
Communications
Manager
Phone: (630) 795-1002
Email: timothym@ustoo.org