Updated May 2009
The BC Cancer Agency statement concerning screening with PSA is:
"Serum PSA is of unknown value as a population screening test. Although there is good evidence that it increases the detection rate of early stage clinically significant prostate cancers, there is little evidence to date that such early detection leads to reduced mortality; the "gold standard" for evaluating screening tests. Fit men (men with at least 10 years life expectancy) between the ages of 45 and 75 should be made aware of the availability of PSA as a detection test for prostate cancer. They should be aware of the potential benefits and risks of early detection so they can make an informed decision as to whether to have the test performed."