Prostate Cancer Screenings: The Facts

According to the American Cancer Society, around 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lives, and 1 in 44 men will die from the disease. Screening for the disease can significantly improve a man’s prognosis if the disease is caught early enough. Unfortunately, many men still forgo screening out of concerns about results or misconceptions about whether it is beneficial.

"There are many myths about prostate cancer that may prevent patients from even discussing proper screening with a provider," says Dr. William P. Clare Jr., board-certified internal medicine specialist at Beaufort Memorial Lady's Island Internal Medicine. "Prostate cancer screening is a men's health issue that needs more discussion." 

Prostate Cancer Screening Recommendations

Since prostate cancer can grow slowly and may not cause symptoms, it is critical to stay in touch with your provider, as regular screenings can detect cancer early. Early detection allows for more treatment options. In fact, the American Society of Clinical Oncology reports that the prostate cancer death rate has been cut in half since 1993 with the emergence of regular screenings, early diagnosis and improved treatments.

Statistics don’t always reveal how prostate cancer affects different demographics. Groups most at risk of developing the disease include men over age 50, African American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer. Dr. Clare recommends the following screening guidelines for these groups:

• Men with a first-degree relative (brother, father or son) who had prostate cancer: Start screening at age 40
• African American men, regardless of family history: Start screening at age 45
• All others: Start screening between ages 50 and 75

However, men who notice prostate cancer symptoms, such as problems urinating, erectile dysfunction or the presence of blood in urine or semen, should see a primary care provider or a urologist, regardless of age, ethnicity or family history.

Read More: More Than Half of Men Over 60 Will Face Prostate Issues

Types of Prostate Cancer Screenings

At Beaufort Memorial, we provide two types of prostate cancer screenings.

A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland. The higher a man’s PSA level, the more likely it is that he has prostate cancer.

Increased levels of PSA don’t immediately identify the presence of cancer, and a biopsy can indicate if someone needs further examination. PSA can be useful in not only early detection but also for annual screening to watch for trends.

The second screening option is the digital rectal exam, a quick, routine procedure that allows your provider to physically examine the prostate to detect growths, enlargement or other irregularities.

If, after these screenings, your provider suspects prostate cancer, he or she will order follow-up care and/or testing, which may include ultrasound diagnostics or a biopsy.

The most important thing to remember, Dr. Clare advises, is to not let fear of a potential diagnosis or misconceptions about screening prevent you from getting tested. Getting screened yourself may inspire other men to do the same — and Dr. Clare says that could have a big impact.

Be proactive with your health. Find a urologist or a primary care provider who can discuss when you should be screened for prostate cancer.