The UK National Screening Committee rejected population-wide PSA screening for prostate cancer, citing overdiagnosis and harms that surpass benefits, and instead recommended targeted PSA testing for men with BRCA1/BRCA2 variants aged 45 to 61, with biennial screening.

Debates continue on extending screening to Black men and those with a family history, as evidence hints at higher risk but not necessarily more aggressive disease.

Advocates, including Prostate Cancer UK and other supporters, pressed for broader targeted or eventual population screening given the disease’s prevalence among men.

reporters note that further guidance details are expected soon as the recommendations are formalized.

Stakeholders expressed disappointment at the narrow scope, while underscoring ongoing research and the possibility of future expansion tied to robust data.

Experts highlighted that removing the rectal examination could reduce screening barriers, and urged continued campaigning for early detection and broader testing if future science supports it.

Public reaction includes disappointment from patients, MPs, and advocates who push for a national targeted screening programme, with Health Secretary Wes Streeting considering ministerial action.

Public discourse on social media emphasized equitable access for high-risk groups and the need to improve testing strategies to reduce overdiagnosis while catching aggressive cancers early.

Prominent figures urged urgent screening and early detection, stressing that catching cancer early saves lives.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting plans to review the draft recommendation, balance benefits with harms of wider screening, and aim for a final decision in March, after a three-month consultation.

The review process includes a three-month consultation before ministers in the UK consider final decisions on screening policies.

Experts caution following NSC guidance and remain wary of politically driven programs until clearer evidence emerges from trials like Transform.