The Zoomer Report: Prostate Latest

Zoomer | May 29th, 2012

In its final recommendation, a blue-chip U.S. government panel says that healthy men of all ages should no longer get screened for prostate cancer with the PSA test because a resulting diagnosis may do more harm than good.

The panel said the risk of side effects like incontinence and erectile dysfunction from treating prostate tumours that may be too slow-growing to ever cause a problem were more likely than the risk of dying from prostate cancer. But according to Dr. Neil Fleshner, head of urology at the University Health Network, the situation is very different here in Canada.

The American Urological Association and survivors’ groups also say they are outraged by this decision. Previous guidelines had stated that most men should undergo screening beginning at age 50.

Photo ©iStockphoto.com/ drbimages

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Libby ZnaimerAbout The Zoomer Report
Libby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.
Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.