Experts suggest that population screening for men could help detect prostate cancer at an early stage, potentially preventing metastasis and fatalities. Pim van Leeuwen, a urologist at the Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital in Amsterdam, advocates for tailored screenings for men at highest risk.
The Integral Cancer Center Netherlands reported an increase in cancer diagnoses last year, with prostate cancer being the most diagnosed among men, nearly as frequent as breast cancer in women. Van Leeuwen expresses concern over the rising diagnoses at later ages, leading to increased mortality, and calls for early detection to mitigate healthcare burdens and costs.
Aging and heightened awareness contribute to more diagnoses, but systematic early testing is still lacking. The Health Council has not yet endorsed population screening due to concerns about its drawbacks.
However, advancements in diagnostic techniques have reduced overdiagnosis and the risks associated with biopsies. Van Leeuwen advises men to get informed about early diagnostics from age 50.
The Prostate Cancer Foundation also supports early screening, citing its potential to significantly impact treatment outcomes. Discussions with healthcare stakeholders are ongoing to explore responsible screening implementation, a complex process influenced by past perceptions and hospital capacity concerns.
Source: NOS