Promise of better prostate testing

A new genetic test could pave the way to personalised screening for prostate cancer.

Scientists have discovered variations in DNA that alter individual "healthy" levels of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), the blood marker used to diagnose the disease.

Currently, men with PSA readings above a certain threshold have samples of their prostate gland removed for testing.

The new test being developed by the Icelandic company DeCode Genetics would make it possible to establish individual PSA thresholds. This in turn could lead to more accurate screening.

The research, published today in the journal Science Translational Medicine, identified six single-letter changes in the genetic code called single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs.

Lead researcher Dr Kari Stefansson, chief executive of DeCode, said: "This is straightforward genetics with direct clinical utility. Detected early, prostate cancer can be treated with near-total success."

Dr Kate Holmes, from The Prostate Cancer Charity, said: "This promising study suggests a new way to develop a more personalised method to screen men for prostate cancer using the PSA test. This new approach could provide a man with more information about his likelihood of having prostate cancer."