Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in men worldwide. Screening for prostate cancer aims to decrease mortality and morbidity from the disease by increasing the chances of successful treatment through early detection. Currently there is a lack of evidence to establish if screening achieves this aim. This is illustrated by the conflicting recommendations offered by medical organisations.

In the absence of evidence patients must rely on their own beliefs and guidance from doctors to make an informed decision. Patients have traditionally adopted a passive role when discussing medical issues and decisions with their doctor. However, if a patient must live with the consequences of a medical decision, then the opportunity to accept or reject the decision must be made available to the patient. This has encouraged patients and doctors to adopt a shared approach to healthcare.