Download Screening - Chesterfield Urology

chesterfield
urology
6055 harbour park drive
midlothian, va. 23112
web:
e-mail:
phone: 804.639.7777
fax:
804.739.1021
www.chesterfieldurology.com
[email protected]
Screening for Prostate Cancer
Regular testing for prostate cancer has been proven to aid in early detection. And the earlier
prostate cancer is detected, the better chances for successful treatment and long-term
survival.
What are the prostate cancer screening recommendations?
The American Urological Association (AUA) and Chesterfield Urology recommend that a
baseline PSA screening begin at age 40, with annual screening beginning at age 50.
If significant risk factors such as a strong family history or African American race are present,
then annual screening should be considered on a regular basis after age 40.
What is the prostate cancer screening process?
Testing for prostate cancer involves a simple blood test and physical exam. All in all, it takes
only about 10 minutes - a small commitment that could potentially save your life.
Typically, your primary care physician (PCP) does a prostate screening as a routine part of your
yearly physical. (If a screening is not included, we advise requesting one starting at age 40.)
Your PCP or urologist will also perform a screening if you are exhibiting any symptoms of
prostate cancer. Doctors test for prostate cancer in two ways:
1. Digital rectal exam (DRE)
The physician will place a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum and feel the
prostate through the rectal wall. This allows the physician to feel the prostate for
lumps, nodules and other abnormalities.
While the DRE may be effective at early detection of colon or rectal cancers, or at catching later-stage prostate cancers, it
isn't a reliable method for finding early-stage prostate cancer. The PSA blood test should also be used.
2. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test
The PSA test is a routine blood screening that can be performed in a lab, hospital or your
doctor's office. No preparation is necessary, except you may be asked to avoid
ejaculation for 48 hours prior. The PSA test can detect high levels of prostate-specific
antigen (PSA), a protein produced by the prostate. Elevated levels of PSA are often-but
not always-an early indicator of prostate cancer, as well as other disorders of the
prostate. (Likewise, normal levels don't necessarily mean there is no cancer.)
What happens after my screening?
If your physician believes that the results of your digital rectal exam or PSA test are cause for
concern, you may require a prostate biopsy.