Editorial
May 1, 2024
The benefits of population screening for prostate cancer have been known for more than ten years. The disadvantages too. However, the balance between advantages and disadvantages is gradually shifting in favor of the advantages. The option of tailor-made ‘active surveillance’ contributes to this, according to Monique Roobol.
The report that the ‘Lancet Commission on prostate cancer’ published at the beginning of April is certainly telling. The incidence of prostate cancer will increase from 1.4 million per year in 2020 to 2.9 million per year in 2040. The main reason for that increase is the increase in male life expectancy, especially in parts of the world where men have a genetically increased risk of developing prostate cancer (Africa, Asia). In the Netherlands, the number of new cases is expected to increase by 30%. The only way to ensure that this global doubling in incidence does not also translate into a doubling in mortality from prostate cancer is early detection, says epidemiologist Monique Roobol. As professor of decision making in urology at Erasmus MC, she has been involved in research into prostate cancer screening and ‘decision-making together’ for years.
“Screening also has a downside”
Epidemiologist Monique Roobol
Population survey
Anyone who says ‘early detection of prostate cancer’ means ‘population screening’. But that’s easier said than done. Roobol: “We know based on, among other things, 30 years ago from Rotterdam
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