a little late

Posted under family by rahma

MDs urged to quit prostate screens in elderly men

Screening for Prostate Cancer: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement

Harms of Detection and Early Treatment

The USPSTF found convincing evidence that treatment for prostate cancer detected by screening causes moderate-to-substantial harms, such as erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, bowel dysfunction, and death. These harms are especially important because some men with prostate cancer who are treated would never have developed symptoms related to cancer during their lifetime. There is also adequate evidence that the screening process produces at least small harms, including pain and discomfort associated with prostate biopsy and psychological effects of false-positive test results.

My grandfather went into the hospital in June due to complications related to prostate cancer screening and treatment.  He never left.  His brother has had prostate cancer for years, hasn’t been treated, and is still alive.

*sigh*