According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer among American men. The ACS predicts that there will be approximately 174.650 new prostate cancer cases in 2019 and 31620 deaths. Prostate cancer will affect approximately 1 in 9 men. Prostate cancer is more common in African-American men and older men.
Prostate Cancer: The Next Generation Test
Prostate Specific Antigen is the most widely used screening test for the diagnosis of prostate cancer. However, it’s well known that PSA can also indicate the possibility of developing prostate cancer if the PSA is positive.
The FDA approved test, the Prostate Health Index (phi), can be used to help distinguish between prostate cancer and benign conditions in men with high PSA.
The Prostate Health Index is rapidly becoming the standard. “second opinion”Men with elevated PSA may want to know more before making a decision about a prostate biopsy.
The Prostate Health Index employs three PSA markers, namely PSA, freePSA and p2PSA. It is part of an algorithm that can more accurately determine the risk of developing prostate cancer in patients with higher PSA levels.
Jim Robinson, like many men with elevated PSAs, was worried about prostate cancer. “I certainly didn’t want to delay treatment if I had prostate cancer, but I was also worried about having a prostate biopsy if I didn’t need one.”Jim’s story may not be unusual. After all, research has shown that about 70% of men with elevated PSA who have had a biopsy have not been diagnosed with cancer.
PSA levels can increase in men with benign conditions (not cancerous). Prostatitis (inflammation) and benign prostate hyperplasia, (enlargement) are the most common benign conditions that can cause an increase in PSA.
As a blood test, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guideline For Prostate Cancer Early Detection includes the Prostate Health Index. This is a blood test that increases prostate cancer detection specificity. Men over 50 years old with a PSA of between 4ng/ml – 10ng/ml are eligible for the Prostate Health Index.
Patients can order their test online
Online physician orders can be initiated by patients who wish to have greater control over their treatment. Telehealth physicians network allows them to access a doctor online and can help with their management. It is recommended that patients share the results of their tests with their regular healthcare providers so that they can be incorporated into their treatment plans.
Find out more about the Prostate Health Index. www.mycancerrisk.info/phiOr call 1-855420-7140 ext.
