As part of a screening program for prostate cancer, men at a senior citizens' center are having their blood levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) measured. Which of the following statements would best characterize a high positive predictive value but a low negative predictive value for this screening test?
A) All of the men who had high PSA levels developed prostate cancer; several men who had low PSA levels also developed prostate cancer.
B) All of the men who had low PSA levels were cancer-free; several men who had high levels also remained free of prostate cancer.
C) Men who had low PSA levels also displayed false-positive results for prostate cancer; men with high levels were often falsely diagnosed with prostate cancer.
D) The test displayed low sensitivity but high specificity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The test's inability to rule out cancer with a low PSA level indicates a low negative predictive value. Answer B suggests a high negative predictive value, while answer C indicates a low positive predictive value. High positive predictive value is associated with high sensitivity.

As Part of a Screening Program for Prostate Cancer, Men