Call for public comments: New draft Guidelines for the Early Detection of Prostate Cancer
Following two years of exhaustive work by experts and consumer representatives, Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) is seeking approval under section 14A of the National Health and Medical Research Council Act 1992 for the DRAFT 2025 Clinical Guidelines for the Early Detection of Prostate Cancer.
The DRAFT 2025 Guidelines are designed to supersede the 2016 Clinical Practice Guidelines for PSA Testing, recognising that significant advancements in diagnosis and treatment have created an evidence-based pathway for a more structured testing program
Australia's new draft 2025 Clinical Guidelines for the Early Detection of Prostate Cancer.
Key changes in the 2025 draft guidelines include:
A world-first recommendation to offer a baseline PSA test to interested men at age 40.
A strong recommendation for GPs to initiate conversations about PSA testing and offer two-yearly testing to all men aged 50–69.
A reversal of the 2016 stance against testing men over 70, recommending testing based on clinical assessment.
Earlier and more frequent testing for men at higher risk, including those with a family history or of sub-Saharan ancestry, starting at age 40.
A recommendation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men to be tested every two years from age 40, recognising their significantly higher mortality risk.
Reinforcement that digital rectal examinations are no longer recommended in primary care, removing a major barrier to testing for many men.
As you know, when prostate cancer is detected early, the prospects for curative treatment and long-term survival increase significantly. The 2025 Guidelines therefore aim to promote the early detection of prostate cancer and reduce risks of death for Australian men impacted by the disease.
The draft reflects a shared vision and a collective effort towards zero deaths from prostate cancer, acknowledging that if we apply our knowledge to detect the disease early and treat it in a timely and effective way, we can defeat it.
We would welcome your comments.
Submissions close 11.59pm on Sunday 25 May 2025.
To download the Guidelines and comment, please go to pcfa.org.au/psa-guidelines-review.
With appreciation in advance for your contribution,
Professor Jeff Dunn AO
Steering Committee Chair
P.S. Please don't hesitate to email research@pcfa.org.au if you have any questions about the Guidelines or the submission process.