As we age, managing our health becomes more important. One of the most critical health items is cancer screening. Colonoscopies check for colon cancer. Mammograms find breast cancer. A prostate exam looks for prostate cancer. One of the best ways to extend your healthy years is to get your screening tests done. It’s easy, too.
What is a Prostate?
Just below the bladder and in front of the rectum, men have a small, walnut-sized gland called the prostate. Its function is to produce seminal fluid (a component of semen).
As men age, the prostate tends to grow bigger. A larger prostate gland can lead to urinary issues such as:
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Frequent urination, especially at night
More serious conditions, like prostate cancer, also occur more often as men get older.
Why Do Men Need Prostate Exams?
Prostate exams are a critical part of comprehensive men’s health care.
Regular prostate exams can detect:
- Signs of prostate cancer
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Prostate inflammation, known as prostatitis
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, but when caught early, it is highly treatable. Early detection can lead to better treatments. It can also lower the risk of treatment-related complications.
When Should Men Get a Prostate Exam?
Men without a strong family history of prostate cancer should discuss prostate exams with their doctor at age 50.
Men at higher risk, such as those with a family history of prostate cancer, should begin considering screening earlier, around age 45. Those with more than one first-degree relative diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65 may start even earlier, around 40.
Besides age, your health and past test results matter. They will help decide how often you need screening.
Signs and symptoms may also indicate a need for a prostate exam. These include:
- Trouble starting urine flow
- Difficulty stopping urination
- A weak urine stream
- Interrupted urine flow
- Frequent urination at night
- Blood in urine or semen
- Painful ejaculation
- Persistent pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis
Types of Prostate Exams
Two main types of prostate exams are commonly used to assess prostate health. Together, they can provide a clearer picture of potential issues.
Digital rectal exam (DRE)
The DRE is a quick, in-office test. A doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate. This exam allows the doctor to assess the size, shape, and texture of the prostate. It also allows them to feel for abnormalities like lumps or hard areas.
The DRE may be uncomfortable. But, it is a valuable tool. It can detect signs of prostate enlargement, inflammation, or cancer. Any abnormal findings during the DRE could prompt further tests to look for the cause.
The PSA Test
The PSA test is a simple blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate.
A higher-than-normal PSA level could suggest prostate cancer. However, other conditions like BPH or prostatitis can also raise PSA levels.
The testing frequency depends on your age, health history, and individual risk factors. Men with average risk should talk to their doctor about screening every 2-4 years. Men at high risk might need more frequent tests.
Schedule an Appointment with an Experienced Urologist
Skipping routine prostate exams could mean missing early signs of these conditions. This could lead to more invasive treatments and a worse prognosis. Regular screening ensures that any problems are caught early when treatment is most successful.
If you’re the right age for a prostate exam or are experiencing symptoms, don’t wait— call to schedule an appointment today!