Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, and recent reports show that cases are rising in the United States, including more advanced-stage diagnoses. Early detection may help identify prostate cancer before symptoms appear and when treatment options may be more effective.
Why Prostate Cancer Screening Matters
Prostate cancer often develops slowly, and many men do not notice symptoms in the early stages. This is one reason screening conversations are important, especially for men as they get older or those with higher risk factors.
Screening does not prevent prostate cancer, but it can help detect signs of cancer earlier.
Who May Be at Higher Risk?
Risk can vary from person to person. Factors that may increase prostate cancer risk include:
- Age, especially over 50
- Family history of prostate cancer
- Black/African American ancestry
- Certain inherited genetic mutations
- History of other related cancers in the family
Men with higher risk may need to begin screening discussions earlier than average-risk patients.
What Screening May Include
Prostate cancer screening often includes a blood test called a PSA test. PSA stands for prostate-specific antigen, a protein made by the prostate.
A higher PSA level does not always mean cancer. PSA can also rise due to benign prostate enlargement, infection, inflammation, or other prostate conditions.
Depending on the results, your provider may recommend:
- Repeat PSA testing
- A physical exam
- Imaging
- Referral to a urologist
- Additional testing if needed
Symptoms to Watch For
Early prostate cancer may not cause symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:
- Frequent urination
- Trouble starting or stopping urination
- Weak urine stream
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Pain in the hips, back, or pelvis
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
These symptoms can have many causes, but they should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Talk With Your Doctor
Screening decisions should be personalized. Some men benefit from screening, while others may face unnecessary worry or follow-up testing from abnormal results that are not cancer.
Your doctor can help weigh the benefits and risks based on your age, family history, race, symptoms, and overall health.
Bottom Line
Prostate cancer is common, and cases are rising. The good news is that screening conversations can help patients make informed decisions about early detection.
If you are age 50 or older, have a family history of prostate cancer, or are at higher risk, talk with your healthcare provider about whether prostate cancer screening is right for you.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to help you maintain your healthy life. Our mission is to provide the highest quality and affordable health care to you and your family.Your health isn’t just some numbers and figures. A person’s well been lays upon a healthy body, good physical condition and more importantly, a sense of feeling well.
Locations:
3916 Prince St STE 251, Flushing, NY 11354
43-73 Union St Suite 1B, Flushing, NY 11355
Disclaimer: The content on this blog is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided is meant to be a helpful starting point for your own research and should not be solely relied upon to make decisions about your health or the health of others. The author of this blog makes no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information presented on this site. Under no circumstances should the author be held liable for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in the content or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, medication, exercise routine, or lifestyle, or when seeking advice regarding a specific medical condition or health concern. The use or reliance of any information contained on this site is solely at your own risk. This blog may contain links to external websites that are not affiliated with the author. The author is not responsible for and does not endorse the content of such external sites. Any references to products, services, or health care providers on this website are not an endorsement or recommendation by the author. By using this blog, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless the author, their agents, and affiliates from and against any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, or expenses, including legal fees and costs, arising out of or in any way connected with your access to or use of this blog.
