Screening for prostate cancer
Article Abstract:
The American College of Physicians recommends that all physicians discuss the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screening with their male patients and leave the decision to the patient. Theoretically, screening is provided to all patients at risk for a condition, even if they have no symptoms. However, there is still no conclusive evidence that regular screening for prostate cancer reduces mortality rates. Screening is usually done by a combination of digital rectal exam and prostate specific antigen (PSA) measurement. The treatment of prostate cancer can produce severe complications.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1997
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Estimating the risks, benefits, and costs
Article Abstract:
Widespread screening for prostate cancer may only be beneficial in young men. Researchers surveyed the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer from 1966 to 1995 and used the Medicare fee schedule to estimate the costs of screening. Based on the evidence, men between the ages of 50 and 69 would gain a few weeks of life if a one-time digital rectal exam and prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing revealed that they had prostate cancer. Older men may or may not benefit depending on assumptions about the effectiveness of treatment.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1997
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Firearm injury prevention
Article Abstract:
The American College of Physicians believes that the prevention of firearm injuries is a high priority and that physicians must become more active in this issue. Physicians should be trained in firearms injury prevention and should support the passage of gun control laws. The College should provide such training for all internists. Physicians need to counsel patients who keep a gun at home. The College also supports a ban on assault weapons, restrictions on gun sales to minors and those with a criminal record, and child safety devices on guns.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1998
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
- Abstracts: Screening for problem drinking in older primary care patients. Targeted screening for childhood lead exposure in a low prevalence area - Salt Lake County, Utah, 1995-1996
- Abstracts: Care in a cold climate. Sense and sexuality
- Abstracts: Reengineering in behavioral medicine. Implementing a patient classification system
- Abstracts: A nurse executive's nightmare: the rogue nurse. Evaluating the performance of the APN. Work redesign: making it a reality
- Abstracts: Discharge from an acute psychiatric ward. Lessons from the outside