Faster, cheaper scan for prostate cancer on the way as experts say new test ... trends now
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Waiting times for prostate cancer are set to be slashed after scientists found a faster and cheaper way to diagnose the disease.
Experts predict it will change clinical practice, catching more cases early and paving the way for thousands more men to be tested each year.
Scan times will reduce by a third and the cost of procedures will almost halve, freeing up much-needed cash for the health service.
Men who are suspected of having prostate cancer are currently given a three-part MRI scan before undergoing biopsies if necessary. But trials have shown these tests can be refined, speeding up diagnosis.
University College London Hospitals found that under the new system, even with the last scan removed, radiographers picked up the same number of serious prostate cancers.
Experts predict it will change clinical practice, catching more cases early and paving the way for thousands more men to be tested each year. Pictured: File photo
Men who are suspected of having prostate cancer are currently given a three-part MRI scan before undergoing biopsies if necessary. Pictured: File photo
Increased demand means that fewer than two-thirds (62 per