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Prostate Cancer Screening
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Prostate cancer can be detected through regular screening. The incidence of prostate cancer increases with age.
A digital rectal exam is done to feel for any prostate abnormality. Generally this is recommended on a yearly basis starting at age 40.
The PSA (prostate specific antigen) test is a blood test that can be done to help detect prostate cancer. If the PSA is low (0-4.0), the chance of prostate cancer is very low. If the level is greater than 4.0 the chance of cancer is increased. If the level is elevated, further testing can be done to determine if cancer is present. Generally, a PSA is offered every year after age 50. However, after age 75 a PSA may not be appropriate.
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