Screening and early detection of prostate cancer

Abstract

The value of routine screening for prostate cancer remains unknown because of the lack of randomized studies. Until such studies are completed, a sensible approach to screening is needed. One approach is to use the method of decision analysis to model the outcome of alternative screening strategies. By assessing the results in terms of their effect on life expectancy and prostate cancer mortality, it may be possible to select the policy that has the greatest potential benefit for the least cost.