MEN could be spared from the side effects of treatment for prostate cancer thanks to a new online tool to aid decision-making about PSA testing.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia's chief executive, Professor Jeff Dunn AO, said an "Australian first" online tool would help inform men about the benefits and harms of having a PSA test - a blood test which can detect prostate cancer before symptoms develop.
University of Sydney Emeritus Professor, Bruce Armstrong AM, said while PSA testing "probably" saved lives, the side effects of curative treatment for prostate cancer could be quite severe.
"Making a well-informed decision about PSA testing is very important," he said. "This online tool is a critical awareness device designed to raise community understanding and improve outcomes for all Australian men - it has the potential to protect men against long-term consequences of treatment, such as loss of sexual function or urinary incontinence, which some would find intolerable."
The tool can be accessed at pcfa.org.au/psatesting.
While you're with us, did you know Newcastle Herald offers breaking news alerts, daily email newsletters and more? Keep up to date with all the local news - sign up here.
IN NEWS TODAY:
- Jill Emberson shares ovarian cancer battle on ABC's Australian Story to fight for funding and raise awareness
- Australia retain Ashes in Old Trafford thriller
- Hunter Water customer Walter Koch says he ended up paying $14,000 to disconnect service
- Water police searching for debris from ill-fated helicopter off Anna Bay
- Autism seminar features clinical psychologist and specialist Dr Lee Sturgeon
- Newcastle drug syndicate smashed: police seize two kilograms of ice