PSA tests, which measure the prostate-specific antigen to screen for prostate cancer, are not recommended for men 70 or older. The influential U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that men 55 to 69 years old should consider periodic PSA testing in consultation with their doctor about the potential benefits and harms.

Prostate cancer is a serious disease that kills tens of thousands of Americans each year. Health experts say most people are diagnosed before it can spread to other parts of the body. Otherwise the disease can be difficult to cure.