Posted on 3 August, 2011
Prostate cancer is one of the most curable forms of cancer. Possible treatment programs range from "watchful waiting" in older men; to complete removal of the prostate gland in others. Treatment choices are based not only on age, but the stage and grade of cancer at discovery. Stage refers to the size and the extent to which the cancer has spread to other surrounding areas; while grade is an indication of how aggressive the tumor is. Both of these scores are used by the underwriter in determining insurability. About 75% of all men in their 80's will test positive when biopsied for prostate cancer. Because of the typically slow growth characteristic of prostate cancer, life expectancy is usually less than the time it would take for the cancer to become a problem. While there are differing points of view in the medical profession regarding the use and appropriateness of the PSA score in predicting prostate cancer, life insurance companies generally rely on scores below 4 in applicant's blood tests to screen for this issue. Scores above 4 generally require a recent negative biopsy before the applicant can be considered for coverage. In general, life insurance companies are conservative by nature and especially so with most types of cancer. However, with certain life insurance companies, prostate cancer may be the exception to this rule. For example, older men may be eligible for a "standard" rating on permanent policies even when the cancer has not been removed, as long as the PSA score is below 10. In younger men, a standard rating is usually possible shortly after surgical removal of the prostate, provided that the cancer was localized and there is an undetectable PSA score post-operatively. When shopping for life insurance, men with prostate cancer history will want to take advantage of an independent insurance agent. Find an independent agent who has the ability to obtain and summarize your medical records and then informally request offers from carriers known to view this disease in a positive light. |
Related Post:
Widget by [ Iptek-4u ]
