{
  "id": 9192858,
  "title": "Should you get a PSA test for prostate cancer?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/22/should-you-get-a-psa-test-for-prostate-cancer",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-09-22T20:16:58.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Conversation AU",
    "slug": "the-conversation-au",
    "url": "https://theconversation.com/should-you-get-a-psa-test-for-prostate-cancer-290161"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Prostate cancer is prevalent among Australian men, with roughly 200 out of every 1,000 developing it by age 85. However, the likelihood of dying from it is lower, at around 18 out of 1,000 cases. The most common method to detect prostate cancer is through prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood testing, though it isn't entirely accurate. Recent updates to Australia's PSA testing guidelines recommend men aged 50 to 69 consider a PSA test every two years. Those aged 45 to 50 and over 70 may also get tested but should consult their GP regarding potential risks and benefits specific to their circumstances.\n\nPSA testing involves measuring a protein made by the prostate gland, which helps liquefy semen. However, not all elevations in PSA are due to cancer; other factors like benign prostate enlargement, infection, or inflammation can also cause higher PSA levels. Therefore, the test itself doesn't diagnose cancer but can indicate the need for further tests.\n\nThe guidelines suggest that men at average risk should only be tested if they are 45 to 49 years old and want to discuss the pros and cons of testing. For men aged 50 to 69, they should be tested every two years after a discussion about the potential benefits and harms. Men over 70 should make an individual decision about whether to be tested, especially if they have a life expectancy of more than seven years.\n\nDespite the potential benefits of early detection, the test also carries risks. A false positive can cause unnecessary worry and possibly lead to an unnecessary biopsy. Overdiagnosis, where a cancer is found but would not have caused any harm, can result in over-treatment and potential side effects such as urinary, bowel, and sexual problems. Conversely, a false negative can provide a false sense of security and delay necessary investigation if symptoms or risk factors suggest otherwise.\n\nUltimately, the decision to undergo a PSA test should be made in consultation with a GP, taking into account individual risk factors, preferences, and the understanding that watchful waiting may be an appropriate option for men with low-risk prostate cancers.",
  "summary": "Here’s who’s eligible and what to consider before deciding.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}