Labor welcomes today’s announcement that the CEO of the National Health and Medical Research Council has approved the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s clinical practice guidelines on PSA testing and early management of test-detected prostate cancer.
PSA testing is the primary method for testing for prostate cancer. But now for the first time health professionals in Australia will have access to evidence-based recommendations for using PSA blood tests to assess prostate cancer risk and manage test-detected patients.
These guidelines have been developed by PCFA in partnership with Cancer Council Australia and a multidisciplinary expert advisory panel of urologists, radiation oncologists, GPs, medical oncologists, epidemiologists, allied health professionals and consumers.
It is estimated that by 2017 there will be more than 185,000 Australian men living with prostate cancer, and by 2020 it is expected there will be between 25,000 and 31,000 new diagnoses each year.
“Prostate cancer is still the second most common cancer causing deaths in Australian men after lung cancer. The approval of these guidelines provides clarity to health professionals about the testing and management of patients and should improve treatment and reduce over-treatment. I commend PCFA, Cancer Council Australia and all those involved in developing the guidelines”, Shadow Minister for Health Catherine King said.
“Every day nine Australian men die of prostate cancer. More than 3,000 a year. If you are a bloke in your 40s, 50s or over it is important to talk to your doctor and get tested. It is just a simple blood test and could save your life”, said PCFA Ambassador Jason Clare.
The Member for Lilley, Wayne Swan said “As a prostate cancer survivor, I know the importance of early detection and treatment, and the benefits of the new guidelines”.
“Early detection is only possible if you get tested, so I urge all men, especially those with a family history of prostate cancer, to consult with your general practitioner and arrange to be tested – it might save your life.”
Full details of today’s announcement, including the PSA Testing Guidelines are available at http://www.pcfa.org.au/awareness/for-healthcare-professionals/clinical-practice-guidelines-on-psa-testing/