Twenty-Three Years of Follow-Up Confirm the Benefits of PSA Screening

One of the longest-running prostate cancer screening studies has now followed more than 160,000 men for over two decades, providing valuable information about the long-term benefits of PSA screening.

Researchers found that men invited to regular PSA screening were less likely to die from prostate cancer than men who were not screened. Although screening led to more prostate cancer diagnoses, including some cancers that may never have caused problems, it also prevented prostate cancer deaths.

Compared with earlier reports from this same study, the balance between the benefits and potential drawbacks of screening has continued to improve over time.

The investigators conclude that PSA screening can save lives when used appropriately. They also believe future screening programs should become more personalized by considering each man’s individual risk factors, helping reduce unnecessary diagnosis and treatment while preserving the lifesaving benefits of early detection.

New England Journal of Medicine. 2025.