Side-effects and complications of prostate biopsies, radical prostatectomies and prostate cancer diagnoses within the PLCO Trial
Principal Investigator
About this CDAS Project
Study
PLCO
(Learn more about this study)
Project ID
2010-0265
Initial CDAS Request Approval
Nov 23, 2010
Title
Side-effects and complications of prostate biopsies, radical prostatectomies and prostate cancer diagnoses within the PLCO Trial
Summary
Although it is often portrayed as an innocuous, routine blood test that may benefit men by detecting prostate cancer at a potentially curable stage, a PSA test is more than an innocent needle prick. There are multiple downstream consequences associated with the practice of PSA screening that are detrimental to the patient including the attendant risks of biopsies and treatment. In the interests of patients, the balance of these potential harms and unsure benefits must be achieved. Further, the risks and benefits should be discussed with the individual patient to ensure an informed decision can be made. We aim to describe the risk of side-effects and complications associated with PSA screening and diagnostic follow-up in the PLCO Cancer Screening Trial to improve patient counseling and facilitate informed decision making.
Aims
1. Describe the type and frequency of complications associated with: a. Prostate biopsy in screened men b. Radical prostatectomy in men diagnosed with localized disease. Null hypothesis: Complication rates associated with biopsy and radical prostatectomy are similar to those reported in other studies. 2. Explore whether mortality from cardiovascular disease is affected by a prostate cancer diagnosis. Null hypothesis: There is no association between a prostate cancer diagnosis and cardiovascular related mortality.
Collaborators
Robert Grubb (Wash U)
Paul Pinsky (DCP)