Prostate cancer guidelines revised
Public comment is sought on new procedures that aim to save more lives.
Prostate cancer is now the most diagnosed cancer in Australia, with 26,000 men diagnosed each year. The disease kills around 4,000 men a year.
However, there is no nationally organised approach to the early detection of the disease.
That may change as world leading, evidence-based methods are hailed as a game-changer in fighting the disease – but only if new national guidelines are adopted and funded.
Draft new detection guidelines are now open for public comment, putting Australia on track to become the first country in the world to have guidelines that prioritise detecting prostate cancer early, and potentially saving more lives.
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) is urging Australians to have their say.
The consultation period closes on Friday, 25 May, and the final guidelines are expected to be approved by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) in August.
Currently, PSA testing is the standard pathology method used by GPs to detect prostate cancer in the first instance. However, it can be unreliable.
The new guidelines recommend baseline testing for all men aged over 40, as well as clinical assessment for men aged over 70.
It follows two years of rigorous analysis by leading medical and scientific experts alongside the Royal Australian College of GPs.
Key changes in the 2025 draft guidelines:
A world-first recommendation to offer a baseline PSA test to interested men at age 40.
A strong recommendation for GPs to initiate conversations about PSA testing and offer two-yearly testing to all men aged 50–69.
A reversal of the 2016 stance against testing men over 70, recommending testing based on clinical assessment.
Earlier and more frequent testing for men at higher risk, including those with a family history or of sub-Saharan ancestry, starting at age 40.
A recommendation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men to be tested every two years from age 40, recognising their significantly higher mortality risk.
Reinforcement that digital rectal examinations are no longer recommended in primary care, removing a major barrier to testing for many men.
If adopted, the national guidelines could mean that men diagnosed with the cancer avoid enduring years of aggressive treatment and the often-devastating side effects.
The proposed changes come after recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer.
It was standard practice that men with high PSA levels were referred for biopsies, with the risk of harmful side-effects. Now, the urologist first orders an MRI and then, if needed, a specialist imaging test, before ordering an invasive biopsy.
Professor Jeff Dunn AO, chair of the Guidelines Steering Committee, is confident about the proposed changes.
“We now have the evidence to recommend a new approach to PSA testing - one that is systematic, risk-based, and proactive,” he said. “If we get this right, we will save lives.”
Anne Savage, PCFA chief executive officer, said all input received during the consultation would help shape the final draft for approval of the National Health and Medical Research Council later this year.
“We are calling on individuals, experts, and interest groups around the country to provide feedback,” she said.
“Every voice matters - from general practitioners to patients, partners, family members, and carers. This is an unprecedented opportunity for Australia to accelerate the early detection of prostate cancer, standing shoulder to shoulder with men and families towards our goal of zero deaths.”
To read the draft guidelines and make a submission, click here.
More information on the detection and treatment of prostate cancer is available here.
Related reading: PCFA, The Australian, Health Direct
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional about any health concerns or before making any changes to your medication, diet, or exercise routine.
