What is Prostate Cancer Screening?
Prostate Cancer Screening are processes used to detect prostate cancer in men who may not have any symptoms of the disease. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men behind non-melanoma skin cancer. Early detection is important and leads to better treatment outcomes.
What methods are used for Prostate Cancer Screening?
There are several methods used for Prostate Cancer Screening, including the digital rectal exam (DRE) and the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test.
The DRE involves a healthcare provider feeling the prostate gland through the rectum to check for any abnormalities.
The prostate-specific antigen test looks for a protein called PCA that is produced by the prostate gland and found in the blood. Elevated levels of PSA can be a sign of prostate cancer.
When should you get screened for prostate cancer?
Men at average risk of developing prostate cancer should begin screening at age 50.
Men at high risk, such as African Americans and men who have a first-degree relative diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age, should begin screening at age 45.
There are situations where you should get screened at a younger age. Please talk to a health care professional if you have questions.
