PSA Screening Guidelines and Recommendations
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Early Detection Screening Guidelines are separated for men at average-risk for prostate cancer and those at high-risk for the disease. This clear guidance is important, especially for those at high risk. All Black, African American Men are at the highest risk for prostate cancer incidence and deaths. PHENpsa.com uses the NCCN guidelines as the basis for its early detection screening recommendations and education.
Average Risk Individuals
Ages 45-75
(With a life expectancy ≥ 10 years)
- Start: discuss pros/cons and get baseline PSA (consider baseline DRE)
- If PSA <1 ng/mL (and DRE normal if done): repeat every 2–4 years
- If PSA 1–3 ng/mL (and DRE normal if done): repeat every 1–2 years
- If PSA >3 ng/mL or DRE very suspicious: get further evaluation
Higher-risk individuals
Ages 40–75
(With a life expectancy ≥ 10 years)
- Higher risk includes Black/African American men; certain inherited mutations; concerning family/personal history
- Start: shared decision-making at age 40 with baseline PSA (consider baseline DRE)
- If PSA ≤3 ng/mL (and DRE normal if done): repeat every 1–2 years
- If PSA >3 ng/mL or DRE very suspicious: get further evaluation
If age >75: screening only in very healthy people; if continuing and PSA <4 ng/mL (and DRE normal if done) repeat every 1–3 years — otherwise further evaluation.
IMPORTANT:
This information is provided for educational purposes only to support patients in understanding and discussing early detection screening with their doctor. However, this information should not be considered as patient screening guidelines or recommendations, but as educational materials only. Patients should discuss early detection screening with their doctors to understand the risks and benefits, and decisions should only be made between the patient and his doctor.
