LUGPA Encourages Members to Speak with Patients About Risk for Urologic Cancers

Chicago, IL, February 1, 2024 – During National Cancer Prevention Month in February, LUGPA reminds urologists to speak with patients about their individual risk for urologic cancers and whether screening is recommended. Regular screening increases the chances of early detection, which can drastically improve health outcomes.

For urological cancers, including prostate cancer, bladder cancer, kidney cancer, testicular cancer and penile cancer, routine screening may be recommended for some patients, and a urologist can discuss all available screening options. For some people, certain regular cancer screenings may be appropriate based on risk factors, such as gender, race and ethnicity, family history of cancer and exposure to certain toxins. In some cases, genetic tests can help to pinpoint hereditary risks for certain cancers and facilitate the creation of personalized screening plans. LUGPA is working to increase awareness of screenings and preventive cancer care.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, apart from non-melanoma skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among American men, and it is also one of the leading causes of cancer death. About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime; however, routine screening and early diagnosis can improve outcomes. Unfortunately, in 2012, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended against routine prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screenings for healthy men, which research suggests may have led to more diagnoses of metastatic prostate cancer and more men dying from the disease during the last decade.

“Physicians and patients should be empowered to make informed decisions about screenings together, tailored to patients’ individual needs,” said Evan Goldfischer, M.D., president of LUGPA. “In urological care, the significance of early detection and risk assessment cannot be overstated. At LUGPA, we are committed to advocating for policies that increase access to these life-saving screenings, including much-needed updates to the PSA testing guidelines for prostate cancer.”

Every person deserves access to high-quality, cost-effective care to prevent urologic cancers. LUGPA represents over 150 independent urology practices across the country that provide services to help patients stay on top of their health, prevent urologic cancers and treat them as early as possible. To learn more, visit www.lugpa.org

About LUGPA 

LUGPA is the only nonprofit urology trade association in the US. Since its founding in 2008, LUGPA has earned national recognition in the pursuit of its mission to preserve and advance the independent practice of urology while demonstrating quality and value to patients, vendors, third-party payors, legislators and regulatory agencies. The robust resources LUGPA provides help member groups to meet the challenges of independent practice in today's rapidly changing healthcare marketplace. For more information, visit www.lugpa.org 

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