The purpose of screening is early diagnosis and treatment. Screening tests are usually administered to people without current symptoms, but who may be at high risk for certain diseases or conditions.
Since the 1990s when screening for prostate cancer with digital rectal exam and the blood test PSA began, many more cases of prostate cancer have been diagnosed and the death rate from prostate cancer has decreased. However, doctors are still unsure if these trends are a direct result of the screening methods.
The American Urological Association and American Cancer Society recommend screening for all men age 50 and older. However, other medical professional organizations do not recommend routine screening of prostate cancer for all men. Instead, they suggest the decision to screen should be based on your risk factors and discussion with your doctor—especially for men between the ages of 50 and 65. This debate over PSA-based screening will likely take many years to mature; in the meantime should discuss your specific issues with your primary care physician or urologist.
Screening Tests
Two tests are routinely used to screen for prostate cancer.
Digital Rectal Exam
A digital rectal exam is done in your doctor’s office, often as part of a routine physical exam. The doctor inserts one gloved and lubricated finger into the rectum and feels the contours of your prostate through the rectal wall. You should not feel pain during the exam, but you may feel slight pressure. You also may feel a bit nervous or anxious; take slow, deep breaths to help yourself relax.
This test measures the levels of PSA in your blood. PSA is a chemical produced in the prostate gland and released into the bloodstream. When the prostate gland is enlarged, the level of PSA released is increased. The level of PSA also increases as you get older and after sexual activity. Therefore, your doctor may ask you to abstain from sexual activity for two days before the test. Doctors sometimes look at specialized laboratory measurements of the PSA called percent-free PSA, PSA velocity, and PSA density.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
