Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with more than 28,000 men newly diagnosed each year. Fortunately, prostate cancer is slow-growing and if detected early enough there is an excellent chance of survival.

 

Over the last 30 years, the 5-year survival rate for prostate cancer has increased from 60% to 96%, thanks to increased awareness about the disease, ongoing research and improved treatments. But nearly 4,000 Australian men still die from this disease each year.

 

The most common and noticeable symptoms of prostate cancer are changes and problems with urinating, either because of a need to urinate more frequently, or because of not being able to empty the bladder comfortably.

 

In August 2026, new guidelines for the screening of men in relation to prostate cancer were released with support from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.

 

Specifically, a new guideline for men aged between 45 – 49 years has been introduced. Routine testing is not recommended at this age unless a man is at higher risk. Higher risk includes:

• Having a brother diagnosed with prostate cancer
• A father diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 65yrs
• Two or more second degree relatives who died of prostate cancer

A GP may offer men in the 45 – 49 year age group an initial test:

• If the PSA result is under 1.0 µg/L, no further testing is needed until age 50.
• If it is 1.0 µg/L or above, the test should be repeated in one to three months. If the result is confirmed, your GP will consider referring you to a specialist.

 

For more information about prostate cancer and the screening guidelines, please click here.

If you have these urinary symptoms, make an appointment with your GP by clicking here or phone 8370 9777.