A government task force recently proclaimed that the prostate scientific antigen (PSA) test need not be administered to detect cancer. The report indicates that the results of surgery can result in incontinence, sexual dysfunction, heart problems, and even death.

Men for years have had this test, and for many it has resulted in a new lease on life when early-stage cancer is detected and cured. Odds are that one man in six will develop prostate cancer—not very good odds. Although it advances slowly, prostate cancer is still very much a killer.

For years men have had a PSA test usually at the time of an annual physical. If the readings are within an acceptable range, no action is taken. However, if the readings begin to rise on each subsequent exam, further testing and perhaps a biopsy may be warranted.

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