Prostate cancer is common and is among the main causes of cancer-related death among men in the U.S., according to the National Cancer Institute. At the same time, in many cases, prostate cancer grows so slowly that it does not impact survival; hence, routine screening is controversial. That’s why it is important to discuss screening with your provider to see if the benefits outweigh the risk of screening and if screening is right for you.
The goal of prostate cancer screening is to find cancer before it causes symptoms and to discover cancer that may be at high risk for spreading if not treated, and treat it early before it can spread, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.
Should I get screened?
According to the CDC, you and your medical provider should talk about any family history of prostate cancer. You should also discuss if you have other medical conditions that may make it hard for you to be treated for prostate cancer if it is found, or that may make you less likely to benefit from screening. Additionally, how you value the potential benefits and harms of screening, diagnosis, and treatment, and if you are at increased risk for getting or dying from prostate cancer should also be discussed with your provider.
Types of Testing
The two tests most often used to identify prostate cancer are the prostate specific antigen (PSA) test and the digital rectal examination (DRE).
Prostate specific antigen (PSA) test
Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a substance your prostate makes. This test measures the level of PSA in your blood. Your PSA level may be high if you have prostate cancer and for many other reasons, such as having an enlarged prostate, a prostate infection, or taking certain medicines.
Digital rectal examination (DRE)
Digital rectal examination (DRE) is when a health care provider inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into a man’s rectum to feel the prostate for anything abnormal, such as cancer.
Tools
Here are some tools to help you prepare to talk to your provider about prostate cancer screening:
Talk to Nathan
Nathan provides information and answers your questions about prostate cancer screening and treatment. He also suggests some questions you might want to ask your doctor.
https://simulations.kognito.com/PROS/PatientScreening/
CDC Video: Should I Get Tested for Prostate Cancer?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUSLqrEiRl4&feature=youtu.be
The Prostate Network (survivor-led group)
https://www.prostatenetwork.org/
Zero Prostate Cancer (stories, support, and resources)
Men can learn about the benefits and harms of prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment by talking to any Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas provider about your risk factors. To request an appointment, call 620-231-9803 or visit www.chcsek.org