One in every 8 Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Even though the survival ratio over 10 years is 95%, prostate cancer is the 3rd leading cause of cancer-related death in Canada. Mortality rates from prostate cancer have constantly declined since de mid-1980s thanks to more advanced and efficient treatment options. Early and effective screening can substantially decrease the risks of prostate cancer. Today, Novus will guide you through the basics of prostate cancer and best practices for screening and staying healthy.
How often should I check for prostate cancer?
Prostate Cancer Canada recommends that preliminary screening should begin for men in their 40s to establish a baseline prostate specific antigen (PSA) measurement, although other bodies (Cancer Care Ontario and Canadian Cancer Society) do not recommend population wide screening for low risk individuals of any age. Keep in mind, some men may fall into a high-risk group, which have a greater likelihood of developing prostate cancer. This includes men with a strong family history of prostate cancer and certain ethnic groups such as those with African ancestry. Speak to your doctor to determine your risk and screening recommendations as it is an individualized decision.
What Kind of Tests Are Involved?
The two most common tests used for prostate cancer screening are prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing and the digital rectal exam (DRE). A DRE is performed by your medical doctor to detect physical abnormalities in the prostate gland. Your doctor will insert a gloved finger into your rectum, and through the wall of the rectum he will be able to feel the prostate gland. Irregularities in its shape, size and texture may indicate cancerous changes. However, prostate enlargement occurs naturally as men age, so changes to your prostate gland may not necessarily mean cancer.
A PSA test is a simple blood test that measures the amount of PSA protein (produced by the prostate) circulating in the blood. There can be low levels of PSA in your blood normally and the levels gradually increase with age. Elevated PSA levels do not specifically indicate cancer; levels can be high without the presence of cancer. PSA levels may be high in men due to an enlarged prostate, a urinary infection, or after frequent intercourse, and some men with prostate cancer may even have normal blood PSA levels. Be sure to discuss with your doctor what your individual test results mean as high PSA levels do not necessarily indicate cancer.
Stay Healthy
Prostate cancer can be a serious threat to your health. However, with proper screening and best practices in mind, you can minimize your risk of prostate cancer. Today’s overview was a high-level look at prostate cancer and associated screening practices. For comprehensive information, you’re already in the right place. We wish you the best of health!
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