MRI capacity assessment for prostate cancer screening in five sites of Europe

Abstract

Recognizing prostate cancer (PCa) as a significant public health challenge, the European Union, in 2022, recommended for organized screening programs incorporating PSA testing with MRI for risk stratification. This study assessed the MRI capacity and readiness of five pilot implementation sites in Europe within the PRostate cancer Awareness and Initiative for Screening Europe (PRAISE-U) project: Lithuania, Poland, Ireland, and two Spanish regions (Manresa and Galicia). Data included MRI types, waiting times, diagnostic quality, radiologist experience, and referral pathways. All pilot sites integrated multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) and biparametric MRI (bpMRI) for risk stratification before prostate biopsy. MRI capacity and readiness for PCa screening across pilot implementation sites demonstrate consistent use of MRI for risk stratification and high diagnostic quality. Some difference in facility infrastructure, radiologist's expertise, and MRI protocols reflect diverse healthcare systems. Future comparison of bpMRI and mpMRI in real-time screening settings will provide critical evidence for scaling the program. Standardizing MRI protocols and PSA assays across pilot sites is essential to ensure quality and consistency. The PRAISE-U project will deliver valuable insights into the feasibility and scalability of MRI-based PCa screening programs across Europe.