Pulaski Times

U.S. Senators John Boozman and Cory Booker have introduced legislation aimed at improving prostate cancer detection through expanded insurance coverage for screenings. The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Screening for High-risk Insured Men (HIM) Act proposes that private health insurance plans cover preventive prostate cancer screenings without cost-sharing requirements for high-risk men.

Senator Boozman emphasized the personal impact of prostate cancer, stating, "Like so many others, my family has experienced the impact of this disease. Since we know early detection leads to better health outcomes, making access to screening easier can help save lives." Senator Booker highlighted the racial disparities in prostate cancer outcomes: “Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men in the United States, with Black men being disproportionately impacted and over twice as likely to die following a diagnosis.”

Prostate cancer is a significant health issue affecting 1 in 8 American men during their lifetime, with African American men facing even higher rates of diagnosis and mortality. Early detection through PSA testing offers nearly a 100 percent survival rate when caught at an early stage.

The bill has garnered support from several organizations. Mark Edney from the American Urological Association remarked on its potential impact: “The PSA Screening for HIM Act is a crucial step toward removing financial barriers to life-saving prostate cancer screenings.” Courtney Bugler from ZERO Prostate Cancer added that access to screening is fundamental in combating prostate cancer.

Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick of the American Cancer Society expressed gratitude towards Senators Boozman and Booker for their efforts: “The PSA Screening for HIM Act would eliminate a significant hurdle that keeps far too many at high risk for prostate cancer from getting tested.” Thomas A. Farrington from the Prostate Health Education Network noted the increasing importance of this legislation due to rising diagnoses and racial disparities.

The full text of the bill is available online.