Everything important at a glance: the most frequently asked questions and answers from the telephone campaign:
What role does measuring the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) level in the blood play ?
The best way to prevent prostate cancer is to regularly check the PSA level (PSA stands for prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate). This recommendation is also expressly endorsed by the German Society of Urology in its current S3 guideline Prostate Cancer 2025. Early detection significantly increases the chances of recovery. The PSA also plays a very important role in the monitoring and treatment of prostate cancer.
Does a diagnosis of prostate cancer require immediate surgery?
There are tumors that do not require immediate surgery. In this case, patients are placed under "active surveillance". Not only survival, but also maintaining quality of life plays a major role. Close-meshed PSA measurements, MRI checks and, if necessary, biopsies (removal of tissue samples) are carried out. This can delay an operation with its subsequent restrictions.
Can prostate cancer be cured?
A complete cure is usually only possible if the prostate is completely removed or irradiated. Partial resection (partial surgical removal) or other methods do not provide a cure.
What has changed or will change in cancer screening examinations?
In July 2024, the upper age limit for mammography screening was raised from 69 years to 75 years. The invitation procedure from the age of 70 will be expanded. Women over the age of 70 who would like a mammography appointment can get one proactively via the Kooperationsgemeinschaft Mammographie website. Since April 2025, the age for bowel cancer screening for women has also been reduced from 55 to 50. Those who opt for stool tests for occult blood instead of colonoscopy will receive these every two years. Finally, next year, low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is planned as a health insurance benefit for active and former heavy smokers between the ages of 50 and 75 for lung cancer screening.
Which cancer screening examinations are recommended at what age?
This information can be found at https://www.krebsinformationsdienst.de/krebsvorsorge-und-krebsfrueherkennung#c7565 of the DKFZ (German Cancer Research Center).
After an inconspicuous skin cancer screening a few months ago, I discovered a mole that looks frayed and has grown upwards. What should I do?
According to the ABCDE rule, the warning signs of skin cancer are: asymmetry, blurred borders, altered color, larger diameterand raised appearance. Anyone who suspects skin cancer should make an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible so that a possible tumor can be treated before it metastasizes. It is recommended that you examine your own skin once a month with the help of your partner or a mirror. Early detection of cancer makes a decisive contribution to improving the chances of recovery.
What exchange and information opportunities are there?
Prostate cancer patients can exchange information in the prostate cancer self-help group in Bietigheim and the surrounding area. The group has been running for 20 years and meets every second Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. (except July, August and December) in the Enzpavillon (Am Bürgergarten 1) in 74321 Bietigheim-Bissingen. Information on the topic of prostate cancer can be obtained from the Bundesverband Prostatakrebs Selbsthilfe e.V. by sending an email to: info[at]prostatakrebs-bps.de. For further information and questions on the subject of general cancer prevention, please contact Dr. Uschi Traub from the health department of the Ludwigsburg district office, mail: Uschi.Dr.Traub[at]landkreis-ludwigsburg.de.
