Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, and yet most men do not know much about the importance of screening. Early detection through routine screenings is the most effective way to start treatment early and improve your outcomes if cancer is found. Here are eight important facts men need to know about prostate cancer screening.
1. The Purpose of Prostate Cancer Screening
The number one purpose of this screening is to detect prostate cancer in its earliest stages so that treatments can be started immediately when they are most effective.
2. Who Should Be Screened For Prostate Cancer
Screening recommendations can vary, but typically, conversations regarding prostate cancer should begin when men turn 50 if they have an average risk of developing prostate cancer. Men at higher risk for prostate cancer, including those with a family history of prostate cancer or Black men, may start screening as early as age 45. Prostate cancer in Black men tends to be found at a younger age and is often more aggressive.
3. The Prostate Cancer Screening Process
Prostate cancer screening is performed to look for possible signs in men who may not have developed symptoms yet. There are two primary screening methods: a PSA blood test or a digital rectal exam.
PSA screening or Prostate-Specific Antigen Test is a blood test that measures a protein produced by the prostate. An elevated PSA does not automatically mean you have prostate cancer, but it’s a clue that should be investigated further.
Digital Rectal Exam, or DRE, is a physical examination performed by your doctor to feel the prostate gland. The doctor inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to check for any abnormalities or tenderness in the prostate. Any lumps, bumps, enlargement, or other abnormalities mean that other testing is needed to identify the cause.
4. The Benefits of Prostate Cancer Screening
There are many benefits of screening. First, prostate cancer screening is the only way to detect cancer within the prostate before symptoms appear so that treatment can be started immediately and be more effective. Also, knowing your PSA level can help both you and your doctor make informed decisions about the need for further screening tests and treatments.
5. How Often Prostate Cancer Screening Should Be Done
Screening is highly personalized and based on each man’s individual risk factors and initial testing results. It’s generally recommended to begin screening at around age 50 and done at regular intervals of 1-3 years. The timeframe varies depending on your personal risk factors.
6. What Happens If PSA is Elevated
It is essential to know that PSA levels can vary based on a man’s age, prostate size, infection, and other factors. A single elevated PSA result does not confirm cancer. If the PSA is elevated, it is often repeated several times to ensure accuracy before moving on to other testing modalities, like an MRI or prostate biopsy.
7. What If Prostate Cancer Is Found
The best thing about this screening is that cancer can often be detected before it has the chance to spread. Often, active surveillance is all that’s required if prostate cancer is found early, meaning treatment is delayed until there are reasons to begin treatment. This is because most prostate cancers are slow-growing.
If your doctor recommends treatment, options can include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy. The choice of treatment often depends on your personal preference, your overall health, and, of course, the stage and type of your cancer.
Start Prostate Cancer Screening Today
Prostate cancer screening is something all men should add to their health management as they age. While most men can begin at age 50, Black men and men who have prostate cancer in their family history may need to start sooner.
If it’s time to start your prostate cancer screening, don’t delay – schedule an appointment today!