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Stockholm3 is a new type of blood test developed by the Karolinska Institute in Sweden and has been used successfully in Scandinavia for the early detection of prostate cancer since 2017. The modern test procedure can be used to assess the risk of clinically significant prostate cancer prior to an MRI scan or tissue biopsy. Compared to PSA-based screening, the Stockholm3 test detects more aggressive tumors and at the same time avoids overdiagnosis.
In addition to the PSA value, the Stockholm3 test records other proteins in the blood and genetic markers and combines these with the patient's clinical data, such as age, prostate size and familial risk, using an algorithm. Using these parameters, the Stockholm3 test calculates the probability of aggressive prostate cancer in a risk score.
The Stockholm3 test is based on scientific studies involving more than 72,000 men. It has been shown that the Stockholm3 test is 22 percent more sensitive than the PSA test.
This means that aggressive tumors can also be detected in men with a low PSA value, resulting in more men being diagnosed with a relevant prostate carcinoma.
In addition, the number of overdiagnoses (39%) and unnecessary biopsies (76%) can be reduced with the help of the Stockholm3 test, possibly in combination with an MRI examination of the prostate. However, the ability to detect clinically significant cancer remains unchanged.
Whocan take the test?
The test can be used in addition to general prostate cancer screening. It is particularly suitable for men aged 45 to 74 who want to assess the risk of prostate cancer in the event of a suspicion - such as an elevated PSA value, abnormal palpation findings or an increased family history of prostate cancer.
