Mark Stearns and Youji Hu, researchers in a prostate cancer research lab at MCP Hahnemann University have developed a highly accurate urine test that can detect early signs of prostate cancer, thus improving the chances of successfully treating the disease. The new urine test could also avoid the need for a painful biopsy. The new urine test would also mean substantial savings for healthcare systems. The new diagnostic tool, known as the PSTF-1 test, spots a genetic marker for prostate cancer. That's important because early detection of prostate cancer increases survival rates greatly.
Prostate cancer is the second most widespread cancer in men, after lung cancer.
It is also the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men, killing more than 44,000 Americans a year.