Publication type
Journal Article
Authors
Publication date
September 1, 2009
Abstract:
Objectives: to obtain population estimates of the prevalence of lack of follow-up after an abnormal PSA result and to assess the role of socio-demographic, access, and risk perception factors on follow-up of abnormal tests.
Methods: We used data from the 2000 National Health Interview Survey cancer control supplement. For 3,310 men aged 40 or older with a PSA test, we assessed whether the 463 men reporting an abnormal PSA test received follow-up. Outcomes were abnormal PSA and lack of diagnostic follow-up. Covariates included socio-demographic variables (age, race/ethnicity, education), access to care (health insurance, usual source), and risk of cancer (family history, perceived risk). Survey analysis procedures accounted for the complex survey design.
Results: Abnormal PSA results were associated with age, family history and perceived risk of cancer. Approximately 15% of men with abnormal tests reported no follow-up. No follow-up was more common in Hispanics (odds ratio=2.21; 95% CI: 1.04, 4.70) and men without insurance (odds ratio=6.56; 95% CI: 2.02, 21.29), but less likely for men with a family history of prostate cancer or higher perceived risk of cancer.
Conclusions: Substantial numbers of men had no follow-up of abnormal PSA tests. Primary care physicians should assess continuity of care following abnormal PSA results. Data about prostate cancer screening and follow-up is needed to support clinical and policy decisions.
Published in
Public Health Reports
Volume and page numbers
Volume: 124 , p.718 -725
Notes
Not held ASL.
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