Why is prostate cancer screening so important?

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men in the United States. It typically presents in men in their 60s or older but can happen at any age. 20-50% of men in their 50s can have prostate cancer. 

What are the common symptoms of prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer screening is especially important because symptoms typically are not present until it has reached later stages. Early on, symptoms can be very non-specific or even absent. As the cancer progresses, people may experience bone pain or blood in the urine. It can block the urinary system and the kidneys.  

Who should undergo prostate screening?

Based on the recommendations of the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer baseline screening for men includes talking with their healthcare provider to determine their risk level.

Men between the ages of 50-70 should undergo prostate cancer screenings. If an individual has a predisposition to prostate cancer, such as a first-degree family history (dad, sibling, son), the screening age is lowered to 40-45.

“And in men undergoing prostate screening routinely, usually through their primary care doctor, about 90% of prostate cancer is found to be organ-confined at diagnosis, which is why the screening process is so important,” states Dr. Kyle Schuyler, urologist at Skagit Regional Health.

What types of screening exist?

There are two ways to determine if a man has prostate cancer:

1. Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA): A blood test to determine if higher than normal levels of this antigen are present.
   
   
2. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Physical examination through the rectum to evaluate the size of the prostate gland.

If either of these tests is abnormal, further testing is necessary to make an accurate prostate cancer diagnosis and monitor treatment. Usually, a core needle biopsy is the method used to diagnose prostate cancer.

Next steps.

According to the American Cancer Society, "screening increases the chances of detecting certain cancers early, when they are most likely to be treated successfully."

Contact your Primary Care Provider or Urologist to schedule your screening today.