Population-based study of biochemical recurrence and risk of mortality following radiotherapy or radical prostatectomy

Stratifying patients with biochemical recurrence after primary treatment for prostate cancer based on the risk of prostate cancer-specific mortality (PCSM) is essential for determining the need for further testing and treatments. In a population-based cohort study of 16,311 patients undergoing radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy, biochemical recurrence (BCR) after primary treatment was found to be a common event with a limited association with PCSM. Risk group at diagnosis, PSA velocity, and primary treatment were the most strongly associated with mortality factors. The authors conclude that improving PSA recurrence definitions and risk stratification tools for patients with BCR may help to reduce overtreatment and overtesting.