Utilizing MRI scans for prostate cancer screening has the potential to substantially decrease the mortality rate associated with the disease, according to researchers.
The findings from this study underscore the necessity for adopting a fresh approach to prostate cancer screening, as stated by the lead investigator of the research.
Prostate cancer is prevalent among men, particularly those aged 50 and above. Individuals exhibiting symptoms such as increased frequency of urination and blood in the urine can request a blood test for diagnosis.
Blood tests, which assess the levels of a protein called PSA, have been connected to both excessive diagnosis and treatment of low-risk cancers.
The study, led by University College London, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and King’s College London, involved more than 300 men who underwent both PSA tests and MRI scans.
Among those with average PSA scores, 16% were found to have prostate cancer based on MRI scans. Remarkably, over 30 of these individuals would not have been referred for further examination.
Professor Caroline Moore, the chief investigator and a consultant surgeon at UCLH, highlighted that these results indicate that MRI scans could provide a more dependable means of early detection of potentially serious cancers. Additionally, less than 1% of participants were inaccurately diagnosed with low-risk disease.
Simon Grieveson, from Prostate Cancer UK, noted the revolutionary impact of MRI scans on prostate cancer diagnosis and welcomed the exploration of further optimizing their utilization.
Professor Mark Emberton, a urology specialist at UCLH, expressed confidence in the potential of a nationwide screening program to significantly decrease the UK’s prostate cancer mortality rate, given the highly treatable nature of the disease when caught early.
The research findings were published in the BMJ Oncology medical journal.
An upcoming trial known as “Limit” is in progress with a larger patient cohort, representing the next stride towards establishing a national prostate screening initiative.
This trial is also striving to involve a more diverse range of participants, including a greater representation of black men, as highlighted by Mr. Grieveson.
