Health Issues

Prostate Cancer Screening, a must for men in midlife

 

Prostate cancer is a complex disease from both a physical and psychological standpoint. Modern methods of detection and treatment, including Life Line Screening’s Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, mean that many prostate cancers are now found earlier and can be treated more effectively. High PSA levels, combined with a complete physical, digital rectal exam (DRE) and prostate biopsy, are necessary to confirm a diagnosis of prostate cancer.

Screening for Prostate Cancer symptoms

PSA Screening

A simple blood test, the PSA Screening measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein produced by the prostate gland.

An abnormal PSA result is only one indicator of prostate cancer. Further testing, including repeat PSA testing and/or a digital rectal exam (DRE) is often required. The only definitive way to confirm a diagnosis is with a transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy, which will assign a Gleason score or “grade” to the cancer. This score helps physicians to determine what stage and how advanced the cancer is and assess the need for treatment.

Who should get a PSA screening?

Men 50-69 who are at average risk for the disease

Men who are 45 years of age and at higher risk either because they are African-American or have a father, brother, or son diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65

Men who are 40 years of age with several first-degree relatives (father, brothers and/or sons) with prostate cancer. This is the highest risk group.

Warning signs

Many men with early prostate cancer show no symptoms. At more advanced stages, however the following symptoms may be present:

Difficulty with urination

Blood in the urine

Impotence

Bone pain in hips, spine and ribs

Nerve pain, muscle weakness and numbness in the feet

Risk factors

Age, Race/ethnicity, Nationality, Family history.

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