A new study led by researchers from Mass General Brigham has highlighted the challenge of balancing overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis of early prostate cancer. The study, published in European Urology Oncology, suggests that reclassifying biopsy Gleason Grade Group 1 (GGG1) as ‘benign’ may overlook aggressive cancers in some patients. Analyzing data from over 10,000 patients in Germany, researchers found that 8% of those with GGG1 had a more aggressive cancer. High PSA levels and more than 50% positive biopsy samples were identified as risk factors for adverse outcomes. The study recommends maintaining the ‘cancer’ classification for higher-risk patients to ensure proper treatment and minimize the risk of death. Senior author Dr. Anthony D’Amico emphasized the importance of continued cancer classification and targeted interventions for patients with GGG1, which shows these risk factors.
November 4, 2024
