Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in men According to the American Cancer Society, around 1 in every 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point during their lifetime.
Detecting this disease early on is crucial for successful treatment and increasing survival rates. One of the most important steps in catching prostate cancer before it progresses is through regular prostate cancer screening.
Let’s delve into the details of prostate cancer testing – from what it entails to why it’s important for early detection – to equip you with valuable information that could potentially save lives.
What is Prostate Cancer, and Why is Testing Important?
Prostate cancer develops in the prostate, a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It is known as a ‘silent killer’ because symptoms may not appear until the disease has progressed significantly.
Regular prostate checks can detect prostate cancer early when treatment is most effective.
When Should You Get Tested for Prostate Cancer?
The general consensus is that men should start discussing getting a prostate cancer test with their healthcare provider by age 50. For those at higher risk, such as African American men or those with a family history, this conversation can begin as early as 40.
Prostate Cancer Testing Basics
The two most common prostate cancer tests are the digital rectal examination (DRE) and the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. Both are used as screening tests for prostate cancer.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
The PSA test is a blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood, a protein produced by both cancerous and noncancerous prostate tissue. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer, but they may also be a sign of other prostate conditions, such as prostatitis or an enlarged prostate.
How It’s Done
- Blood Sample Collection: A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm.
- Laboratory Analysis: The blood sample is analyzed in a lab to measure the PSA levels.
- Interpretation of Results: PSA levels are measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). A higher-than-normal PSA level may prompt further investigation, such as a repeat PSA test, DRE, or a prostate biopsy.
Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
The digital rectal exam is a physical examination in which a healthcare provider manually assesses the prostate gland for abnormalities in size, shape, or texture. Though it may sound intimidating, the exam is quick and provides valuable information about the prostate’s health.
How It’s Done
- Preparation: You’ll be asked to disrobe from the waist down and given a gown. You might be positioned lying on your side with knees brought up to the chest or standing and bending forward.
- Examination: The healthcare provider will insert a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel the part of the prostate next to the rectum. This allows your provider to detect any abnormalities.
- Duration: The procedure is relatively quick, usually lasting only a minute or two.
Additional Prostate Cancer Tests
When the PSA and DRE results are abnormal or when other symptoms suggest potential prostate cancer, additional tests may be needed for a more definitive diagnosis. These may include:
Ultrasound
Ultrasound tests, such as transrectal ultrasound, use sound waves to create an image of the prostate gland. During a transrectal ultrasound, a probe is inserted into the rectum, which is adjacent to the prostate.
The images can help your healthcare provider visualize the prostate and look for abnormalities.
Biopsy
If other tests suggest that you might have prostate cancer, your healthcare provider may recommend a prostate biopsy. During this procedure, a small sample of tissue is taken from the prostate and examined under a microscope to check for the presence of cancer cells.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, may help determine the extent (stage) of the cancer and look for the presence of cancer in other parts of the body. This is important for developing a comprehensive treatment plan.
Prostate Cancer Test in DeSoto, TX
At Pivot Healthcare Company, we understand the importance of early detection and proactive management of prostate health. Our dedicated team, led by our Nurse Practitioner, Crystal Capler, is committed to providing a comprehensive range of men’s health services, including prostate cancer tests. In addition to men’s health services, we are proud to offer weight management services, preventive care, chronic disease management, women’s care, and much more.
To schedule a consultation with our primary care nurse practitioner, call us directly at (214) 242-9316 or fill out our online appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
