Men's Health Screening: PSA, Testosterone, and New Challenges in Prevention
The health of men is an increasingly important topic in modern medicine, particularly regarding prevention and screening for common diseases such as prostate cancer and hypogonadism. Two of the most discussed markers in this context are prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and testosterone. These medical exams are essential for early detection and proper management of conditions that affect men's quality of life.
Diving Deeper into PSA and Testosterone Screening
PSA screening is a crucial tool in the detection of prostate cancer. However, its use has been debated due to the potential for overdiagnosis and overtreatment. A recent study showed that a significant number of men receiving testosterone therapy do not undergo PSA testing before or after treatment, which could lead to inadequate management of their prostate health.
On the other hand, the relationship between testosterone and PSA levels in the general population has been studied. It has been observed that men with higher testosterone levels tend to have higher PSA levels, suggesting a possible interaction between these hormones and the risk of prostate cancer. However, in men with pathogenic variants of BRCA1/2, no significant association was found between hormonal levels and prostate cancer, indicating that other genetic factors may influence risk.
Additionally, testosterone therapy in older hypogonadal men has shown an increase in PSA levels, although in most cases, this increase is small. This underscores the importance of careful monitoring during treatment to avoid complications.
Conclusions and New Challenges in Prevention
Managing men's health through PSA screening and testosterone presents significant challenges. It is crucial for physicians to follow established guidelines to ensure that patients receive appropriate diagnosis and treatment. The variability in clinical practice, as observed across different medical specialties, highlights the need for greater education and standardization in managing these tests.
In conclusion, while PSA and testosterone are valuable tools in the prevention and management of men's diseases, their use must be carefully considered and tailored to the individual needs of each patient. Ongoing research and medical education are essential to improve health outcomes in this area.
Referencias
- [1] Screening and monitoring in men prescribed testosterone therapy in the U.S., 2001-2010
- [2] Circulating total testosterone and PSA concentrations in a nationally representative sample of men without a diagnosis of prostate cancer
- [3] Prostate-Specific Antigen Levels During Testosterone Treatment of Hypogonadal Older Men: Data from a Controlled Trial
Created 13/1/2025