Overview
- The American Cancer Society on Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026, issued its first prostate‑screening update since 2010 and now endorses routine PSA testing rather than leaving screening solely to shared decision-making.
- The group recommends average‑risk men ages 50 to 69 receive PSA tests every two years and that higher‑risk men, including Black men and those with a first‑degree relative diagnosed before age 65, start annual screening at 45 and continue to 69.
- For men 69 or younger with PSA at or above 3 ng/mL, the guidance advises a repeat PSA test before taking further steps.
- The guidelines require repeat PSA confirmation and recommend pre‑biopsy multiparametric MRI or validated blood or urine biomarkers to identify clinically significant tumors and reduce unnecessary biopsies and overtreatment.
- Officials say the shift reflects long‑term trial follow‑up and better diagnostic tools but note that limited access to MRI, biomarkers, specialist follow‑up, and insurer uptake could constrain benefits and worsen disparities for some patients.