Psychosocial consequences of potential overdiagnosis in prostate cancer a qualitative interview study

BACKGROUND: Prostate cancer is a frequently diagnosed cancer and made up 6% of male cancer deaths globally in 2008. Its incidence varies more than 25-fold worldwide, which is primarily attributed to the implementation of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test in developed countries. To reduce harm of overdiagnosis, most international guidelines recommend surveillance programmes. However, this approach can entail negative psychosocial consequences from being under surveillance for an (over)diagnosed prostate cancer. AIM: To explore men’s feelings and experiences in a surveillance programme. DESIGN AND SETTING: Qualitative study with Danish men diagnosed with asymptomatic prostate cancer Gleason score ≤ 6, who are in a surveillance programme METHODS: 12 semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted and analysed with systematic text condensation and selected theories. RESULTS: Most informants reported that they were astonished at the time of diagnosis. They were aware of the small likelihood of dying from cancer, but in some cases, the uncertainty created ambivalence between knowing and not knowing. The men expressed their risk awareness in different ways: a realization that life does not last forever, uncertainty towards the future, a feeling of powerlessness, and a need for control. CONCLUSIONS: KEY POINTS: Current awareness: The number of men living with an asymptomatic prostate cancer has increased the last 20 years after the implementation of the PSA test. Main Statements: Men living with an asymptomatic, low-risk prostate cancer experience negative psychocosial consequences. GPs should consider the possible negative psychosocial consequences in their decision-making of measuring the PSA level.