Genetic test predicts prostate cancer death risk

A new genetic test can identify which men with prostate cancer are at highest risk of dying, enabling more personalised treatment decisions. Developed by University College London scientists, the Decipher test analyses tumour genes to predict cancer spread and aggressiveness. Researchers studied Decipher scores from over 6,000 men, finding higher scores consistently predicted worse outcomes. The test helps doctors determine who needs intensive treatment like the drug abiraterone, which blocks testosterone and halves death risk, while sparing low-risk men from unnecessary side effects. The findings will be presented at the European Society for Medical Oncology Congress 2026 in Madrid. The research stems from the Stampede trial, which led to NHS England widening abiraterone access to over 7,000 more men annually, potentially saving 3,000 lives.