New guidelines for prostate cancer testing: what changed

neilmcaliece
3 days ago
2 min read

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian men according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. New national guidelines now set out exactly when a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test should be offered and how often.

What changed

The 2026 Guidelines for the Early Detection of Prostate Cancer in Australia were approved by the National Health and Medical Research Council on 18 May 2026. They replace the 2016 guidelines and set a clear testing pathway based on age and risk.

The testing pathway by age

For men aged 45 to 49, routine testing is not recommended unless you are at higher risk. If you are interested in your prostate health, your GP may offer an initial test.

For men aged 50 to 69, testing every two years is recommended after an informed discussion with your GP.

For men aged 70 and over, testing depends on your individual health and life expectancy. Your GP will talk this through with you.

Higher risk groups

You may be at higher risk if you have a brother or father with prostate cancer, two or more second-degree relatives who died from the disease, Black sub-Saharan ancestry or a BRCA2 mutation. The guidelines recommend testing every two years from age 45 for this group, with lower action levels.

The same age and risk guidance applies to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men. Your GP can tailor the conversation to your circumstances.

Talk to your GP

A single high PSA reading does not mean you have prostate cancer. Levels can rise for a number of reasons. Your GP will explain what a result means for you and refer you on for further checks if needed.

Book an appointment with your GP to talk through your prostate health and where you sit on the new testing pathway.

Source: 2026 Guidelines for the Early Detection of Prostate Cancer in Australia. Approved by the National Health and Medical Research Council on 18 May 2026. Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (pcfa.org.au).