Final answer:
PSA levels less than 2.5 ng/mL in men at average risk may be retested every 2 years, but routine PSA screening is not universally recommended. Decisions on screening should be personalized and discussed with a healthcare provider.
Step-by-step explanation:
The frequency at which a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) level should be rechecked when it is less than 2.5 ng/mL varies based on multiple factors such as age, family history, and other potential risk factors for prostate cancer. Typically, doctors may recommend retesting every 2 years for men who are at average risk and have a PSA level less than 2.5 ng/mL. However, the United States Preventative Services Task Force in 2011 recommended against routine screening in healthy men because of potential risks of treatment outweighing the benefits especially since prostate cancer can develop slowly and may not lead to death.
Screening decisions should be made on an individual basis in discussion with a healthcare provider, considering the potential benefits and harms. More accurate tests such as the PCA3 might be considered, and genetic screenings for cancer risks could be discussed if there is a family history or other concerns. The overall approach to screening should be personalized and includes considering the patient's values and preferences.