PSA Screening Remains Valuable In Fight Against Prostate Cancer

The founder and lead surgeon of the Las Colinas Cancer Center talks about the benefits of testing.

Irving, TX, ? Several recent changes in recommendations for prostate cancer screening likely have left more than a few men wondering if the prostate-specific antigen test is worth considering. Although not perfect, cancer care providers say the PSA remains a valuable tool in the fight against this potentially life-threatening disease.

?The PSA is associated with a fair number of false alarms, but it remains the best tool that is widely available for use in prostate cancer screening,? says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at the Las Colinas Cancer Center. ?The test is responsible for helping detect thousands of cases early and in their most treatable stages.?

The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force took the PSA out of routine screening recommendations a few years ago due to concerns about over-diagnosis. It recently walked back that recommendation a bit by suggesting men and their doctors discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks on a case-by-case basis.

The PSA is designed to measure the levels of prostate-specific antigen in men?s blood. This antigen is often associated with the development of prostate tumors. It isalso linked to benign conditions such as prostate enlargement. The screening tool cannot determine the causation behind PSA elevations, which means men with non-life-threatening conditions may undergo biopsies that turn out being unnecessary. Studies have shown, however, that repeating PSA testing before undergoing further testing can help reduce the likelihood of procedures that may not be strictly necessary.

All men are at risk for developing prostate cancer as they age. With that in mind, it is strongly recommended men talk with their healthcare providers about their personal risks.

?If risks are moderate-to-high or other concerns serve as red flags for cancer, the PSA may very well be advised,? says Dr. Echt. ?It?s best for men and their doctors to review the pros and cons together, but it is important to keep in mind that early detection can and often does save lives.?

About Las Colinas Cancer Center
Las Colinas Cancer Center, a Choice Cancer Care Treatment Center, is committed to providing the personalized, compassionate treatment that can make all the difference in cancer care. Our state-of-the-art facility, located in North Texas, offers those battling cancer and blood disorders a safe haven where they can find professional care from some of the nation?s most experienced oncology specialists in a supportive, caring environment with an integrated approach to treatment.

Company :-Las Colinas Cancer Center

User :- Radiation Clinic

Email :-cancercenterlascolinas@gmail.com

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Url :- http://lascolinascancercenter.com