A recent study reveals that men who frequently miss prostate cancer screenings are at a significantly higher risk of dying from the disease. This research, based on 20 years of data from over 160,000 men across seven European countries, highlights a key group often overlooked in screening programs: those who avoid appointments.
Researchers emphasize that understanding why some men skip screenings could be vital to improving survival rates and making screening programs more effective. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men worldwide, and its prevalence is expected to double by 2040.
Screening programs that measure prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in the blood offer early treatment opportunities, which could lead to better outcomes and reduce the need for expensive treatments associated with advanced stages of the disease. Long-term data consistently shows that PSA screening reduces the risk of dying from prostate cancer by 20%.
The study, the world’s largest prostate cancer screening research, focused on the impact of avoiding screenings over 20 years. It revealed that over 12,400 men missed their appointments, resulting in a 45% higher risk of death from prostate cancer compared to men who attended their screenings.
The findings were shared at the European Association of Urology Congress 2025 in Madrid.
Why Do Men Skip Prostate Cancer Screenings?
The reasons behind men skipping prostate cancer screenings are complex. Dr. Renée Leenen, a researcher from Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, explained that the European Randomized study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (ERSPC) aimed to assess the effects of PSA screening on cancer mortality. In their analysis, 12,401 men out of 72,460 who were invited to screenings did not attend any sessions.
Leenen found that men who were invited but avoided screenings had a 39% higher risk of dying from prostate cancer compared to those not offered the screening. “Non-attendance may be the biggest barrier to successful population-based prostate cancer screening,” Leenen explained.
Expert Reactions
Dr. Nilesh Vora, a hematologist and oncologist, described the findings as “fascinating.” He noted that while there has been debate over the effectiveness of PSA screening, this study suggests a 23% decrease in prostate cancer mortality for men who participated in screenings. Vora emphasized that men aged 55-69, who are most likely to benefit from aggressive treatment if diagnosed early, should be a primary focus for screening in future studies.
Although the study’s results are yet to be peer-reviewed, Vora looks forward to seeing the full findings later this year.
The Importance of Screening
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that at least 70% of a population should participate in screening programs for them to be effective. However, participation rates in current cancer screening programs are low and declining. Leenen stressed the need for further research into why some men avoid screenings, which could help create targeted interventions to improve awareness and participation.
Dr. Ramkishen Narayanan, a urologist, noted that the ERSPC study has long highlighted the importance of prostate cancer screening in the U.S. He explained that despite concerns over over-treatment, data shows that screening can prevent prostate cancer-related deaths by diagnosing and treating cases early.
In conclusion, the study underscores the vital role of prostate cancer screenings in reducing mortality rates. Ensuring that more men attend these screenings could be key to saving lives.
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