Soon after our October 29 email, Malecare sent questions to Albert Siu, MD, Chairperson of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force about plans to review their 2012 recommendation against the use of the PSA test for prostate cancer screening. Dr. Siu was quick to reply.
I encourage you to read our questions and his answers, here: USPSTF RESPONDS TO MALECARE
MALECARE EMAIL OF OCTOBER 29, 2015 RE-POSTED, BELOW:
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) posted a draft research plan on screening for prostate cancer. The draft research plan is available for review and public comment from October 29, 2015 to November 25, 2015. To review the draft research plan and submit comments, go to: http://bit.ly/1LEu5g3
The USPSTF is the organization responsive for the recommendation against prostate cancer screening. Their May 2012 recommendation reads:
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against prostate-specific antigen (PSA)-based screening for prostate cancer.
This recommendation has caused massive controversy throughout our health care system. We ask you to post your comments on the USPSTF website, at: http://bit.ly/1LEu5g3
Whether you agree with their 2012 finding or not, our prostate cancer community needs to be heard. This new research project gives all of us an opportunity to influence the outcome of prostate cancer screening in the United States.
Even if you don't know anything about research or the PSA test, it will be helpful to let the USPSTF know that prostate cancer patients and family members like you are keeping a watch on their work.