At the moment most health authorities, including The Cancer Council Victoria, do not recommend screening for all men for prostate cancer. This is because there's no reliable evidence at this stage that this prevents men from dying from prostate cancer. However, research may answer this question in time.
We do not suggest that no men should be tested. Instead, men should find out all the information they need and make an informed decision.
Talk to our counsellors at the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20. Read our information booklets on prostate cancer issues and treatment. Visit the prostate cancer website. Speak to men who have been through the prostate cancer journey. Talk to your doctor.
In older men, most prostate cancers grow slowly. Many men who don't have treatment for prostate cancer will never suffer from the effects of their cancer. On the other hand, side effects of treatment (possible incontinence and impotence) can be quite severe for many men.
There are many resources available and we're happy to help you get access to the information you need.
Updated June 2007
