Prostate cancer remains one of the most common cancers among men, affecting roughly 1 in 8 during their lifetime, according to Dr. Phillip Koo, Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at the Prostate Cancer Foundation. In a recent interview, Dr. Koo and Bill, a patient living with prostate cancer for 18 years, discussed the role of PSMA testing in managing the disease, emphasizing that men should proactively discuss it with their doctors.
Dr. Koo highlighted that early screening through a simple PSA blood test is crucial for detecting prostate cancer early, when treatment can be most effective. However, for men already diagnosed, understanding whether cancer has spread is vital. PSMA is a biomarker found on prostate cancer cells that can be visualized using a PET scan, providing critical information about the extent of the disease. "Over 80 to 90% of prostate cancer patients express that biomarker," Dr. Koo noted, making PSMA imaging a powerful tool for determining appropriate therapies at the right time.
Bill, who has navigated prostate cancer for nearly two decades, shared his personal experience with PSMA testing. After his diagnosis, he actively sought knowledge and discovered PSMA, bringing it to his doctor's attention. "Information is power," he said, explaining that the PSMA scan gave him a clearer understanding of his condition and empowered him to take an active role in his treatment decisions. Following the scan, he and his oncologist crafted a plan of action, and Bill has never been a passive participant in his care.
The discussion also addressed how patients and doctors can collaborate on whether PSMA testing is appropriate. Dr. Koo stressed that patients must speak up and be heard, educating themselves about their options to feel empowered in conversations with healthcare providers. "Knowing your PSMA status is vitally important to your cancer care," he said.
For those seeking more information, Dr. Koo directed men to GetYourScan.com, a resource that explains PSMA scans and offers guidance on advocating for this test. He encouraged men to talk to their doctors about whether PSMA imaging could benefit their specific situation.
The conversation underscores a growing emphasis on personalized medicine in oncology, where advanced imaging and biomarkers help tailor treatments to individual patients. As prostate cancer remains a significant health concern, experts hope that increased awareness of PSMA testing will lead to more informed decisions and better outcomes for men facing this diagnosis.
