ProGRESS is a nationwide research study conducted by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that will look at whether a genetic test called a polygenic risk score (PRS) can improve the way we screen for prostate cancer. The study uses your genetic information (DNA) to measure your risk for prostate cancer and then provides that information to you and your healthcare providers. This information might help patients and their healthcare providers lower their risk of prostate cancer or detect and treat prostate cancer sooner.
If you are a male Veteran between the ages of 55-69 and have not previously had a prostate biopsy or MRI and/or have been diagnosed with prostate cancer; you may qualify for this
ProGRESS aims to develop a precision prostate screening intervention that will decrease the rate of negative biopsies, while maintaining (or improving) the clinically significant prostate cancer. As a result the VA may be able to better identify men at a higher Risk of developing clinical significant prostate cancer (csPCa) and deliver a targeted prostate cancer screening strategy.
What is Prostate Cancer Screening and how can it be improved?
Prostate cancer screening looks for cancer in the prostate gland. If found at an early state, cancer may be easier to treat. The most common form screening for prostate cancer today is a blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) a substance produced by the prostate.
How do I join ProGRESS?
It's easy to become a part of this important research effort without leaving your home. Simply call 833-607-5281, email VAProGRESS@va.gov, or use this web link to let us know you’re interested.
What is a Polygenic Risk Score (PRS)?
A polygenic risk score, or PRS, is a number determined by your genetic make-up. A prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, test measures the level of PSA in the blood and is often routinely ordered by primary care providers. The level of PSA in the blood may be higher in people who have prostate cancer.
The PSA level may also be higher for a variety of other reasons impacting the screenings accuracy.
How Can Prostate Cancer Screening be Made Better?
The ProGRESS Study Team (this study) proposes that we If we can identify those at high risk for developing prostate cancer (high PRS) from those at lower risk for developing prostate cancer (low PRS) we can identify individuals who would benefit from appropriate PSA testing and in turn prevent the overuse of PSAs, MRIs and biopsy procedures.
Contact the ProGRESS Study team at:
progress@va.gov
(833) 607-5281