A new study has found that men who miss prostate cancer screenings are at a 45% higher risk of dying from the disease. According to researchers, avoiding regular check-ups increases mortality rates.
The American Cancer Society reports that about one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime, making it the second-leading cause of death in men worldwide. However, most men who receive a diagnosis do not die from the disease.
Experts warn that dodging screenings can lead to fatal consequences, particularly when using prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests in blood samples. By introducing widespread screening programs and catching cancer earlier, men may be more likely to be cured and avoid costly treatments.
The European Randomised Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer found that PSA screenings can reduce mortality rates from prostate cancer by 20%. Research spanning two decades shows a clear link between declining attendance at screenings and increased risk of death.
In the study, scientists analyzed data from over 72,000 men across seven European countries. Those who missed every screening appointment were nearly five times more likely to die from prostate cancer than those who attended.
Lead researcher Renée Leenen attributed this disparity to “care avoiders” – individuals who tend to avoid healthy behaviors and preventative care. To address this issue, Dr. Leenen emphasized the need for healthcare professionals to better understand why men choose not to attend screenings and design more effective population-based programs to encourage participation.
Source: https://www.unilad.com/news/health/prostate-cancer-risk-increases-45-percent-220701-20250323