Does a prior cancer diagnosis impact PSA testing? Results from the National Health Interview Survey

Can J Urol. 2023 Jun;30(3):11551-11557.

Abstract

Introduction: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing remains a controversial issue. However, most urological guidelines recommend PSA testing in men aged 55-69 through a shared decision-making process with the patient. The impact of prior cancer diagnosis on PSA testing is not well-known. To compare PSA testing in men aged 55-69 years with and without a history of cancer (excluding prostate cancer patients).

Materials and methods: Utilizing the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), a retrospective cross-sectional study during the year 2018 was carried out. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was implemented to demonstrate potential associations with PSA testing and assess the association of cancer history.

Results: A total of 2,892 men aged 55-69 years from the NHIS survey who met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. A total of 308 (10.7%) men had a history of cancer (non-prostate). Men with a cancer history had a higher number of PSA tests and more recent testing than men with no previous cancer history. On multivariable analysis, men who were previously diagnosed with cancer had a higher likelihood of undergoing PSA testing compared to men with no history of cancer (OR: 1.87, 95% CI 1.39-2.52, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions: Our data suggest that men aged 55-69 with a history of cancer are more likely to undergo PSA testing than men with no cancer history.

Keywords: cancer; prostate cancer; prostate-specific antigen.

MeSH terms

  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Early Detection of Cancer / methods
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Substances

  • Prostate-Specific Antigen