DNA test could spare some prostate cancer patients chemotherapy, UCL trial finds

A new study suggests a DNA test could spare some prostate cancer patients unnecessary chemotherapy, according to a UCL trial of 6,000 men. The Decipher genetic test identifies which tumors are likely to spread, potentially personalizing treatment decisions. The test analyzes genes in existing tissue biopsies to determine tumor aggressiveness. Researchers found men with high-risk disease but low Decipher scores had low spread rates and could avoid intensive treatment, while high scores predicted worse outcomes and benefit from adding the hormone therapy abiraterone. The findings come amid debate over PSA testing, which the UK National Screening Committee said can cause overtreatment. Prostate cancer is now the UK's most common cancer, with 600,000 cases, following a campaign by Olympic legend Sir Chris Hoy for more routine checks.