How Often Should You Get a Prostate Screening?

Prostate screening for cancer may be part of every man's primary healthcare at some point. When and what type of screening a man needs will vary based on several factors, including age and family history. Though this is a subject that should be decided between a male patient and their healthcare provider, here are some helpful things to know about screening recommendations.

About prostate cancer

Prostate cancer originates in the walnut-shaped prostate gland that is responsible for the production of seminal fluid. The gland is located just below the blatter and in front of the rectum. Though this cancer is one of the most common in men, it usually grows slowly and stays confined to the prostate. Still, some prostate cancers can be aggressive and quickly spread. Therefore, prostate screening is recommended for some men so early detection can allow for the best chance at successful treatment.

Risk factors for prostate cancer

Like all cancers, certain things put a man at higher risk. These are the risk factors a doctor will consider when deciding on prostate screening. They include:

• Older age. Especially after the age of 65
• Ethnicity. Male patients of African ancestry and to be at higher risk
• Family history. Having a first-degree relative increases one's risk
• Certain gene variants. Includes certain variants of the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene

Though diet, smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, and being overweight may also contribute to prostate cancer risk, the role of these factors is not clear.

Types of prostate screenings

There are two tests that may be part of a patient's initial prostate screening.

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test

PSA is a protein produced by cancerous and noncancerous tissue in the prostate. High levels of the prostate may indicate cancer, among other conditions.

Digital rectal exam (DRE)

For a DRE, the doctor inserts a gloved and lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland. If abnormalities are detected, this could be a sign of prostate cancer. Depending on the results, further testing may follow.

Screening recommendations

The patient and doctor should weigh the pros and cons of testing and possible treatment during a consultation. Prostate screening is not necessarily the right choice for all men. This cancer tends to grow so slowly that testing is not recommended for men who are not symptomatic and have less than ten years of life expectancy left. The American Cancer Society recommends that a discussion about prostate screening should take place at:

• 50 for male patients of average risk. As long as they are expected to live at least ten more years
• 45 for male patients at high risk. Includes men of African descent and those with first-degree relatives diagnosed younger than age 65
• 40 for male patients at higher risk. Includes men with more than one first-degree relative who was diagnosed younger than age 65

According to John Hopkins Medicine, men ages 55 to 65 can benefit most from screening because this is when this cancer is most likely to occur. Recommendations for additional screenings will depend on these results and can vary for each individual.

Talk to a doctor about your risk

Male patients should have a discussion with their doctor about their cancer risk and individual recommendations for prostate screening. There are many factors to consider to help patients make an informed decision. Call us to learn more about prostate screening recommendations.

Request an appointment here:https://campmedicine.org or call Center for Adult Medicine and Preventive Care at (973) 859-9165 for an appointment in our Passaic office.

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