Blood Test May Offer More Accuracy Than PSA

As the prostate-specific antigen tests remains under fire for its track record of inaccuracies, researchers in Sweden believe they’ve found a better blood test. Designed to screen for prostate cancer using a large number of markers, the test has held up well in studies so far for its ability to accurately detect aggressive prostate cancer.

Named at this time STHLM3, the test looks at six protein markers and more than 200 genetic markers to determine the presence or absence of prostate cancer. In addition, clinical data, such as family histories, age and past biopsies are taken into account to guide test results. Over all, the test has been found to be reliable in detecting aggressive prostate cancers even in men who have low PSA test results. These cancers are the ones that often go undetected with potentially fatal results.

While more study is required before the new test will be available worldwide, it is showing promise in offering more insights than the standard PSA. That test, although still highly valuable, has been proven to have a high false positive rate. This, in turn, can lead men down a path to unnecessary, invasive prostate biopsies when they are not strictly called for. Adding a new tool to the arsenal to screen for prostate cancer is now a major concern for healthcare professionals as the PSA has been cast in doubt. STHLM3 may one day become that tool.

Men who are age 50 or older are urged to discuss prostate cancer with their healthcare providers. Early screening for the disease can lead to lifesaving interventions when they are called for. The PSA, although not perfect, is still a valuable tool for helping gauge the likelihood that prostate cancer may be present. To learn more about testing, talk with a healthcare provider.