Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian men, with more than 26,000 new cases each year.
Yet, despite its prevalence, about a third of these cases are detected at a late stage—when treatment options can be more limited and outcomes less favourable.
Now, in a world-first move, Australia is set to overhaul its approach to prostate cancer testing, aiming to catch the disease earlier and save more lives.
Why the change?
The current guidelines for prostate cancer testing, last updated in 2016, have been widely criticised as confusing, outdated, and not fit for purpose.
Many men—and even their GPs—have been left unsure about when to test, how often, and what to do if results are abnormal.
Recognising the urgent need for clarity and improvement, a steering committee of leading cancer experts, clinicians, and patient advocates was formed to review and revamp the guidelines.
After extensive consultation with both the medical community and the public, the proposed changes are now being considered by the National Health and Medical Research Council.
If approved, these reforms will put Australia at the forefront of prostate cancer detection worldwide.
What’s changing?
The new guidelines propose several key changes:
Baseline PSA Testing at 40: All men will be offered a baseline PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test at age 40. This early check can help identify those at higher risk and set a benchmark for future monitoring.
Regular Testing for Men 50–69: GPs will be encouraged to offer PSA testing every two years to all men in this age group, regardless of symptoms. This is a significant shift from the previous, more cautious approach.
No Age Cut-Off at 70: The old advice to avoid testing men over 70 is being scrapped. Instead, testing decisions will be based on individual health and life expectancy, not just age.
Earlier and More Frequent Testing for High-Risk Men: Men with a family history of prostate cancer—such as a father, brother, or uncle who has had the disease—will be offered earlier and more frequent testing.
This reflects the well-established fact that genetics play a major role in prostate cancer risk.
Professor Jeff Dunn, Chair of the Steering Committee and Chief of Mission at the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), explains: ‘We have stronger recommendations about men with family histories of prostate cancer because if you have a father, brother, or uncle with prostate cancer, your risk is higher.’
The role of new technology
One of the most exciting developments driving these reforms is the use of multiparametric MRI (mpMRI).
This advanced imaging technique has become standard practice for investigating elevated PSA levels.
It allows doctors to get a much clearer picture of the prostate, helping to distinguish between aggressive cancers that need treatment and slow-growing ones that may not.
The result? Fewer unnecessary biopsies and invasive procedures, and a more targeted approach to treatment.
‘It was important that we update these guidelines to factor in the latest evidence, the latest clinical practice,’ says Professor Dunn. ‘We will detect prostate cancer earlier and we will save lives.’
What does this mean for you?
If you’re a man over 40—or you have a loved one who is—these changes could have a direct impact on your health. Early detection is key: prostate cancer caught early is much more treatable, and survival rates are significantly higher.
Here’s what you can do:
Talk to Your GP: Ask about your risk factors, especially if you have a family history of prostate cancer. Don’t be afraid to request a PSA test, even if you feel well.
Stay Informed: Medical advice changes as new evidence emerges. Make sure you’re up to date with the latest recommendations.
Look After Your Health: A healthy lifestyle—regular exercise, a balanced diet, and not smoking—can help reduce your risk of many cancers, including prostate cancer.
A step forward for men’s health
These reforms represent a major step forward in men’s health in Australia. By making testing more accessible and tailored to individual risk, thousands of lives could be saved each year.
But we want to hear from you! Have you or someone you know been affected by prostate cancer?
What do you think about these new guidelines? Will they make you more likely to get tested? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—your story could help others take action for their health.
Also read: New lung cancer screening program aims to save 12,000 lives over next decade
