According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men after skin cancer.
The risk of prostate cancer is about 1 man in 8 will be diagnosed in their lifetime. It’s important for men to be screened for prostate cancer in order to catch it in early, more treatable stages.
Prostate cancer almost always affects men over the age of 55; however, some men younger than that are also at risk.
There are two components to prostate cancer screening: PSA and DRE.
A PSA is a blood test that detects elevations of prostate specific antigen, which can be a sign of prostate cancer.
A DRE is a digital rectal exam, which is an exam where a physician inserts a gloved index finger into a man’s rectum, feeling the prostate gland for any abnormalities.
Men aged 55-69 should discuss with their doctor the risk and benefits of PSA screening and whether or not it is right for them.
Men older than 69 or younger than 55 who have risk factors for prostate cancer, including family history, African American heritage and any known genetic mutations should talk with their doctor about earlier and continued screenings.
Anyone with a PSA greater than 3, or with an abnormality on the digital rectal exam, should meet with a urologist.
Lawrence County Memorial Hospital is here to help with screening and connecting you with the right physician for you. To schedule your appointment, give them a call at (618) 943-1000.
