A cancer leaves few to lobby Apr 14, 2008
"We don't have a Pap smear, we don't have a colonoscopy, we don't have a PSA test for pancreatic cancer," said Dr. Anirban Maitra, a pancreatic cancer researcher at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. "We badly, badly need a screening marker for this disease.". (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, PA)
Prostate checks men follow Sam Apr 6, 2008
Prostate checks men follow Sam - National - theage. Prostate checks men follow Sam. (The Age)
More awareness needed to prevent prostate cancer Mar 16, 2008
The PSA test is a screening process in detecting prostate cancer early and should be encouraged by all doctors since most people don't see urologists periodically, Anil Bradoo, head of the Mumbai Urology Society, said. Since there are fewer urologists in the country, general practitioners should also encourage the test, he said. (Hindu)
New Urine Test ID's Prostate Cancer Mar 15, 2008
That means the PCA3 test can do things the current PSA test can't do. The PSA test detects prostate-specific antigen, a protein given off by all prostate cells ... If the PCA3 test is so good at detecting prostate cancer, will it replace PSA tests and prostate biopsies. (Yahoo News -- Prostate Cancer)
PSA Test Losing Diagnostic Value, Study Says Mar 15, 2008
"In men with an abnormal digital rectal examination, it [the PSA test] still is very predictive," said study author Dr. Douglas S. Scherr, clinical director of urological oncology at Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York City ... "It doesn't apply to men who haven't been screened. For those men, the PSA test might be more accurate." ... The PSA test has flaws, Thompson acknowledged. (MEDLINEplus)
Biopsy techniques have made PSA test less predictive Mar 10, 2008
PSA tests have been lauded as important diagnostic tools for prostate cancer, however much of the data used to make this conclusion were generated in the early to mid 1990s, when prostate biopsies were performed differently than they are today ... Douglas Scherr, MD, Michael Schwartz, MD, and colleagues at the New York Presbyterian Hospital of the Weill Medical College of Cornell University, in New York City, set out to assess whether changes in prostate biopsy practices might have changed the... (EurekAlert!)
Men Need Internet Help to Get Prostate Cancer Info Feb 27, 2008
After viewing the traditional decision aid or the trajectory model, the men who opted not to have a PSA test were those who had expressed significantly less concern about prostate cancer at the study's outset, the researchers found. However, the men in the control group who chose not to have a PSA had expressed just as much concern about prostate cancer as those who did have the test. (MEDLINEplus)
'Enormous Progress' in Reducing Cancer Does Not Include Lung Cancer Feb 26, 2008
PSA testing for prostate cancer and CT scans for lung cancer are currently undergoing randomized controlled trials and the US government gives both screening tests the same "I" rating: insufficient evidence to recommend for or against. However, while mute on lung cancer screening, ACS strongly supports offering a PSA test to all men over 50 and urges that they be given information on prostate cancer screening "so they can make an informed decision." "Why shouldn't those at risk for lung cancer... (PR Newswire)
Must-have medicals| Feb 18, 2008
Blood for a PSA test should be taken early in the morning, before eating. Where. (iAfrica.com)
Can prostate cancer screening be risk stratified? Feb 16, 2008
A single PSA test taken at or before age 50 is a very strong predictor of advanced prostate cancer diagnosed up to 25 years later. This suggests the possibility of using an early PSA test to risk-stratify patients so that men at highest risk are the focus of the most intensive screening efforts. (BioMed Central)
Test Can Predict Advanced Prostate Cancer Feb 15, 2008
Previously, the teams research has shown that a single PSA test at age 50 or younger could predict the presence of prostate cancer in men up to 25 years in advance of diagnosis ... While this data does not have any immediate implications for general prostate cancer screening guidelines, Dr. Lilja adds, We have found that a single PSA test taken at or before age 50 is a very strong predictor of advanced prostate cancer diagnosed up to 25 years later ... This suggests the possibility of using an... (Newsmax)
Prostate Cancer Watch And Wait Suggested For Older Men Feb 14, 2008
Before screening techniques such as the PSA test (detects changes in the prostate specific antigen levels), men first became aware of having the disease when physical symptoms due to the enlarged prostate started to have effect ... Now with the PSA test, doctors are finding out much earlier, and the treatment options become broader, including wait and see, or "watchful waiting" as it has also been called. (Medical News Today)
Waiting To Treat Prostate May Not Raise Risk Feb 14, 2008
PSA Test May Lead To Overtreatment ... Older men with early-stage prostate cancer are not taking a big risk if they keep an eye on the disease instead of treating it right away, suggests the largest study to look at this issue since PSA tests became popular ... "It may persuade some middle-of-the-roaders that we are overtreating this disease," and that PSA testing may be amplifying the problem, he said. (Click2Houston, TX)
The Big Question: Are we on the brink of a breakthrough in the ... Feb 12, 2008
The next stage is a blood test for prostate specific antigen the PSA test which, if raised, may indicate the presence of cancer ... How reliable is the PSA test ... But research shows that seven out of 10 men with a high PSA test will not have cancer. (Independent)
Beating the oddsCan "gene screening" be used to spot prostate cancer? Feb 11, 2008
"I have three sons in their 40s who are considered to be at high risk and one has had a PSA test which came back negative. "I think he and the others should have regular testing. Taking part in this study has been very interesting and I'm glad to see it's produced such exciting results. (BBC News -- UK)
Vital: Gene Hope In The Battle Against Prostate Cancer Feb 11, 2008
Currently prostate cancer screening relies on the PSA test. However, the PSA test is notoriously inaccurate and frequently provides misleading results. (Glasgow Daily Record)
Relay for life to 'fight back' against cancer Feb 9, 2008
"It could be something like women getting their mammograms or men getting the PSA test," Griffin said. "It could also be something like a person who decides to call their representatives for a year to get them to support any legislation that could help find a cure for cancer. We want everyone to do something that can help fight the disease whether through preventative measures or anything to help us with cancer research.". (Clanton Advertiser, AL)
Prostate cancer patient touts compassion, quality care received at H. Filmore Mabry Cancer Center Feb 5, 2008
The American Cancer Society recommends that doctors offer the PSA test and DRE yearly, beginning at age 50, to men who do not have any major medical problems and can be expected to live at least 10 more years. Men at high risk should begin testing at age 45. (Orangeburg Times and Democrat, SC)
Blood analysis screening under way Jan 30, 2008
It is also suggested that an elevated PSA test result be followed by an office visit with a medical provider. Free blood pressure checks A free service offered at the blood analysis screening will be blood pressure checks. (Harlan Tribune, IA)
The doctor will see you now! Jan 23, 2008
Guys, the doctor will see you now. By Scott LaFee UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER. (San Diego Union-Tribune)
Prostate screening: Some men say no Jan 18, 2008
Its an unusual stance in a country where PSA testing has become nearly universal since its introduction more than two decades ago ... For years, Kramer, 59, had advised his own doctor that he didnt want a PSA test. (MSNBC -- Health)
Portable Device Quickly Detects Early Alzheimer's Jan 17, 2008
It would be part of a regular preventative medicine exam much like a PSA test or EKG (electrocardiogram), serving as a cognitive impairment vital sign of sorts. The portable test runs patients through a battery of visual and auditory stimuli such as pictures and words that assess cognitive abilities relative to age, gauging reaction time and memory capabilities. (Science Daily)
Rudy: Hospital Visit Was Result Of 'Headache Worse Than I've Ever Had'... Dec 23, 2007
And that my PSA test has come back negligible. The whole group of things like that he'll address himself. (The Drudge Report)
Prostate problem: is it serious or benign? Nov 30, 2007
The physician will also order a PSA test. A high PSA level doesn't always mean you have cancer, but it does mean you need further diagnostic treatment. (Marco Island Sun-Times, FL)
African-American Men Face Disadvantages Versus Caucasian Men In Prostate Cancer Survival Nov 29, 2007
Most prostate cancer is diagnosed in response to a PSA test, and a high body mass index (BMI) often corresponds with lower blood PSA levels. "Diabetes and metabolic disturbances associated with insulin regulation are more common among African-Americans compared to Caucasians, and metabolic disorders associated with obesity and diabetes may lower PSA levels and may cause a delay in referring a patient for a biopsy," Fowke said. (Science Daily)
PSA test may be 'useless' for spotting cancer in obese men Nov 24, 2007
New research released this week provides additional evidence why the PSA test may be "essentially useless" for spotting cancer in men who are carrying around extra weight. The test measures blood levels of a protein - called prostate specific antigen - that is routinely pumped out by the prostate. (Globe and Mail)
Obesity May Affect Prostate Cancer Test Nov 21, 2007
(WebMD) Obese men may have prostate cancer despite relatively low values on a prostate cancer screening t 00004000 est called the PSA test, a new study suggests. The PSA test detects PSA - prostate-specific antigen - in the blood ... Based on the men's body mass index, and adjusting for differences in the men's clinical conditions and prostate pathology, the researchers used pre-operative PSA test values to calculate the actual amount of PSA in the men's blood. (CBS News)
Should UK Prostate Cancer Detection Age Be Lowered, In Line With ... Nov 18, 2007
The study involved 442 men aged 40-45 - they all agreed to PSA testing ... They were invited to additional testing, involving an ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy, another PSA test, and a digital rectal examination. (Medical News Today)
Should the UK lower the age for prostate cancer detection? Nov 17, 2007
Of 442 men (34%) who agreed to PSA testing, 54 (12%) had an elevated PSA result. These men were invited for further testing (an ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy, a repeat PSA test, and a digital rectal examination). (EurekAlert!)
Hundreds visit hospital health fair Nov 17, 2007
" Wayne Lambert Jr. was one of the participants who said he and his whole family come out each year for testing. After Memorial Hospital phlebotomist Bridget Mills finished drawing his blood for the wellness profile, Lambert said he highly recommends that other people take advantage of the hospital's community event, as well, since it not only saves money but can also help save lives. Godwin said the hospital laboratory did a total of 731 wellness profiles and 324 PSA tests, which was slightly... (Bainbridge Post Searchlight, GA)
Four Pinocchios for Recidivist Rudy Nov 8, 2007
" I know that I won't be subject to excessive radiation from "defensive medicine" tests that my doctor's lawyer ordered throughout my life (and the associated increased cancer risks). If I was particularly worried about prostate cancer and wanted regular PSA tests in the UK, I could always request them from my doctor. See As for the concern about the government telling people what doctors they see... don't insurance companies already do this? I know that I have a list of doctors that I can see,... (Washington Post)
Statement From Men's Health Network: U.S. Presidential Candidates Overlook Real Problem in U.K. & U.S. Health Policies Towards Men Nov 6, 2007
According to the U.K.'s NHS Cancer Screening Programmes, "All men should know they are having a PSA test and be informed of the implications prior to testing. Opportunistic PSA testing is not recommended." The United States, while providing free screenings for breast cancer for women through the Center for Disease Control, provides no such screening program for prostate cancer. In fact, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says the following on it's website: "The U.S. Preventive... (PR Newswire)
Prostate cancer: Wait and watch - or not? Nov 2, 2007
According to Canadian Cancer Society figures, 22,300 men this year will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, a disease that is frequently diagnosed, largely due to the PSA test ... Aggressive treatment for a low-grade cancer is considered overkill, yet monitoring cancer with biopsies and PSA tests carries the risk of missing the window of curability ... Half of patients will be randomly selected for treatment, such as surgery or radiation, and the other half will undergo active surveillance, which... (Globe and Mail)
Prostate cancer screening is Saturday at BCHHC Nov 1, 2007
The 30 charge for the PSA test is covered by Medicare Part B.. One in six men will get prostate cancer, but if caught early, nearly 100 percent survive. (Beatrice Daily Sun, NE)
Blood screenings planned Oct 27, 2007
Men can also receive a PSA test (prostate cancer screening) for an additional 20. Participants should fast overnight before their appointment, although a small amount of water or black coffee the morning of the blood draw is fine. (Atlantic News-Telegraph, IO)
Prairie Flower: It's very important to be tested for cancer Oct 19, 2007
Besides the PSA test and digital exam, there are tests such as mammograms, Pap smears and human papillomavirus tests for women, and colon, skin and heart tests for everyone. We need to know what tests should be done for our age group. (DeKalb Daily Chronicle, IL)
Leading researchers to reveal comprehensive dos and don'ts for prostate cancer Oct 14, 2007
With more widespread testing for prostate cancer using the common PSA test, increasing numbers of new cases are being tracked. The resulting volume of patients, many of whom may have less virulent forms of prostate cancer, is creating a challenge for physicians determined to provide patients with the most appropriate advice which may not always include aggressive treatment. (EurekAlert!)
Marathon man completes 71st race Oct 8, 2007
wore bib No. 71 for the Steamtown Marathon on Sunday because it was the 71st marathon that the 31-year-old has completed. Even more remarkable is that 52 of those marathons came last year. (Scranton Times, PA)
A randomised controlled trial of the effects of a web-based PSA decision aid, Prosdex. Protocol Oct 5, 2007
The objective is to assess the effect of Prosdex on six specific outcomes: (i) knowledge of PSA and prostate cancer-related issues--the principal outcome of the study; (ii) attitudes to testing; (iii) decision conflict; (iv) anxiety; (v) intention to undergo PSA testing; (vi) uptake of PSA testing ... Men between the ages of 50 and 75, who have not previously had a PSA test, will be recruited from General Practitioners (GPs) in Wales, UK. The principal outcome, knowledge, and four other outcome... (BioMed Central)
Election vows boost health care and rural areas Sep 30, 2007
"So, this is a very dramatic expansion of the OHIP coverage for the PSA test.'' He said the cost of the PSA test currently runs around $45. Tory boosts rural support, defends school funding Smitherman took the opportunity to take a jab at the previous Progressive Conservative government for cutting health care services. "The Harris Tory government cut health care and caused wait times for cancer surgeries to rise dramatically. We are bringing them down," said Smitherman in the news release. In... (CTV.ca)
Men 50-plus to be covered for prostate tests Sep 30, 2007
Most people would not have the resource of an OHIP-funded PSA test for preventative purposes, he said in an interview. So, this is a very dramatic expansion of the OHIP coverage for the PSA test ... The annual cost of extending the PSA test to all Ontario men over 50 is estimated to be $30-million, which Mr. Smitherman said would come from general government revenues. (Globe and Mail -- National)
Do You Actually Need a Physical Exam? Sep 25, 2007
Some doctors even argue that submitting people to a battery of preventive screening tests such as the PSA test for detecting and may end up needlessly exposing people to the risks of treatment when the screening tests may be unreliable and treatment may have adverse side effects. However, doctors skeptical of the annual physical may be in the minority. (U.S. News & World Report)
Protate Cancer Test Sep 22, 2007
(WebMD) An experimental blood test for prostate cancer seems to work better than the current PSA test and can tell whether the cancer is spreading ... Unlike the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) protein on which the current PSA test is based, this protein isn't found in normal prostate cells ... Nobody is entirely happy with the current PSA test for prostate cancer. (CBS News -- Evening News)
Genetic test for prostate cancer Sep 21, 2007
But the PSA test is notorious for providing misleading results, which has led doctors to nickname it the Producer of Stress and Anxiety test ... The Progensa PCA3 test, which is licensed in the European Union, costs about 200 compared with about 10 for a PSA test ... For this reason it is unlikely to be used as routinely as a PSA test and, at present, is not widely available on the NHS. However, offering it to NHS patients could theoretically reduce the cost of 500 biopsies. (Times Online)
Cancer screening doesn't offer all the answers Sep 19, 2007
Then there is the PSA test itself. In an accompanying editorial, David Crawford, a professor at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, points out we still don't have high-quality screening trials telling us whether PSA testing saves lives ... PSA testing is but one example of research ambiguity. (Globe and Mail)
First genetic test for prostate cancer Sep 16, 2007
The PSA test can indicate the presence of a prostate problem, which may sometimes turn out to be prostate cancer. The PSA test gives rise to a large number of false positive results, however ... Roger Kirby, professor of urology at St George s hospital, London, said: Although the PSA test gives us an indication of there being something wrong with the prostate, it does not always tell us if it is malignant. (Times Online)
Prostate funding levels criticized Sep 13, 2007
Linda MacNaughton of the Prostate Cancer Institute in Calgary said her organization will reimburse men who have paid for the PSA test, which costs around $23. "Eight men die every week from prostate cancer in Alberta," said MacNaughton, noting Prostate Cancer Awareness Week runs Sept. 17-24. (Canoe.ca)
Too few men get prostate cancer test, group says Sep 13, 2007
The PSA test looks for levels of a specific molecule in the blood ... "I had a digital exam and nothing was out of the ordinary. So without the PSA test, I wouldn't have got diagnosed as quickly as I had." ... Foster credits the PSA testing with possibly saving his life. (Toronto Star)
Generic prostate drug helps find high-risk cancers early Sep 12, 2007
It appears that a man concerned about prostate-cancer risk, who is having a PSA test on a regular basis, will not only reduce his risk of prostate cancer if he takes finasteride, but will help find the cancers that pose the highest risk, says Ian M. Thompson, M.D., the studys senior author and a urologist at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio ... "This report provides an important interpretation of results that confounded an overall favorable interpretation of the... (EurekAlert!)
Record breaking Relay For Life Sep 4, 2007
Society funded research has led to the development of early detection methods such as the PSA test and mammography. Original American Cancer Society scientific research contributed to the recognized link between smoking and lung cancer. (Ocheyedan Press Melvin News, IA)
Prostate Test May Not Need High Frequency Aug 30, 2007
PSA Test Catches Early Cancers That May Not Be Fatal ... WASHINTON -- A large study from Europe suggests it doesn't hurt to wait a few years between prostate cancer screenings, but the research won't end debate over the value of PSA tests ... Since treatment can cause incontinence or impotence, PSA testing may do more harm than good for some men. (Click2Houston, TX)
Gene Fusions Trigger Cancer Growth Aug 3, 2007
Researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center have discovered how genes turn on the switch that leads to prostate cancer. Arul Chinnaiyan, M.D., Ph. (Science Daily)
The 30 Minute Diabetes Cure?! Jul 29, 2007
Discover the one reliable source for it in the U.S., then learn how to avoid false positives on your PSA test. plus, check out the powerful sex enhancer that may even improve blood pressure. (Newsmax)
Vital checks for every man Jul 26, 2007
AIDS WISE Here's what you should know about Aids, including the latest news and some inspiration from David's Diary. NOURISHMENT Healthy eating habits lead to a healthy body. (iAfrica.com)
New Urine Test ID's Prostate Cancer Jul 16, 2007
That means the PCA3 test can do things the current PSA test can't do. The PSA test detects prostate-specific antigen, a protein given off by all prostate cells ... If the PCA3 test is so good at detecting prostate cancer, will it replace PSA tests and prostate biopsies. (Yahoo News -- Prostate Cancer)
Medical advances Jul 16, 2007
Although experts say they don't yet have evidence that the PSA test saves lives from prostate cancer, 58% of men over 50 had gotten the screening by 2003, up from 41% in 2000. Getty Images. (USA Today)
Simple Interventions May Increase Prostate Cancer Screening Jul 12, 2007
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men, with an estimated incidence of 234,460 cases and 27,360 deaths in 2006. Screening for prostate cancer remains controversial due to insufficient evidence to recommend for or against screening. (Science Daily)
FDA: Tomatos anti-cancer claims are weak Jul 11, 2007
In his editorial, Giovannucci points out that today many prostate cancers are identified very early with the PSA test. Studies that supported a preventive effect of lycopene or tomatoes were largely done before the PSA era, or in countries where the PSA test isnt widely used, meaning the cancers involved were more advanced, he explains ... Its therefore possible, Giovannucci says, that tomatoes and lycopene could be helpful in preventing more advanced-stage cancer, but may have no effect... (MSNBC -- Health)
New Colon Cancer Warning Signs Jul 11, 2007
" James B. (age 46) Every month, youll receive Dr. Blaylocks briefing on the latest cutting-edge research (particularly the helpful findings that never make it into the nightly news). And youll get his recommendations for beneficial nutrients, simple lifestyle changes and easy dietary measures that will keep you in control of your own health. Never any spin. Never any nonsense. Best of all, The Blaylock Wellness Report costs so little that all NewsMax readers can afford it. Quality... (Newsmax)
Men less likely to get annual checkups Jul 6, 2007
Annual checkups can give you the gift of time. By Leslie GarciaThe Dallas Morning News Published on: 06/25/07. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
Cancer takes more rural men Jun 30, 2007
"What we suggest is that men need to be more aware of cancer and talk to their doctor about whether they should have a PSA test (for prostate cancer) or not," Professor Olver said. "Clearly, that is also happening more in the city than in the country at the moment.". (The Age)
Learn how to get out of just about anything ... Jun 23, 2007
Your PSA test just came back positive. Oh no. (Newsmax)
Advise men on pros and cons: expert Jun 20, 2007
More than half of Canadian men over the age of 50 have undergone a PSA test for early detection of prostate cancer ... To clear up the confusion, a leading cancer expert is recommending that the descriptors "normal" and "elevated" for PSA tests be abandoned ... Then, if the patient decides to have a PSA test, the results should be judged only in conjunction with other risk factors, he said. (Globe and Mail)
Ovarian Cancer: "Silent Killer" No More? Jun 15, 2007
" Ovarian cancer, if detected early is 90 percent curable. But only 19 percent of cases are discovered in the earliest stage. "Ovarian cancer can grow very rapidly, so time is of the essence," said Dr. Carol Brown, an oncologist and surgeon at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York. Couric asked Brown why if there's a PSA test for prostate cancer, mammograms for breast cancer and colonoscopies for colon cancer, why isn't there some kind of diagnostic test for ovarian cancer? "The... (CBS News)
Tomatoes cant prevent prostate cancer? May 22, 2007
For one thing, the subjects enrolled in the study were initially screened through a prostate-specific antigen or PSA test and digital rectal exam, and were then followed through routine exams and screenings until first occurrence of prostate cancer, death or the end of the trial in 2001. He asked, is it possible that those who were at high risk for prostate cancer indicated by a high PSA count might take beta-carotene and or lycopene supplements in an effort to reduce their risk of the disease. (Food Consumer)
