The Prostate Gland - Screening

Can I be screened for prostate cancer?

At present, there is no screening program in Ireland for prostate cancer. There has been much debate and research among health care workers about the possible benefits of a screening program. The difficulties around screening for prostate cancer occur because the PSA test is not a specific test for prostate cancer. It can only indicate that a man may have a problem with his prostate gland which needs further investigation. Up to two thirds of men with a raised PSA do not have prostate cancer, therefore routine PSA testing of all men could lead to much anxiety and alarm.

Men need to make an informed choice on an individual basis whether or not to have their PSA tested. Read the section on What Tests Might I have? And Who Should Have A PSA Test? to help you make your mind up.

Our booklet Understanding the PSA Test will help you to weigh up the pros and cons of this decision. You could talk it over with your doctor too.