According to the National Cancer Institute, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the United States, after skin cancer.
The prostate is a gland about the size of a walnut located just below the bladder. It is responsible for producing important fluid for reproduction. There is a risk of your prostate slowly growing cancer without any symptoms until it is fully infected or spreads cancer to other parts of your body.
Although some prostate cancers are asymptomatic (do not present symptoms) some may show signs. These could be testicular pain, blood in your urine or difficulty passing urine. Visit your doctor immediately if you experience this.
If you are wondering if you should be screened for prostate cancer, here are a few things to consider.
1. Your age
The National Cancer Society reports that those older than age 50 have a higher chance of getting prostate cancer. Those who are over 65 have about a 66% chance of developing the disease.
2. Your family history
Having a family history of prostate cancer could mean you might be at risk. You should be screened for prostate cancer if you have any family relatives that developed the disease especially before age 65.
3. Your race
For some unknown reason, African Americans are more susceptible to prostate cancer than other race.
About screening
Screening for prostate cancer can include the following tests:
- PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test – PSA is a protein made by the prostate gland. When levels of this protein rise it could mean you have an enlarged prostate, infected prostate or cancerous prostate.
- DRE (digital rectal exam). – An exam done to feel your prostate’s size, shape and texture. This can determine whether your prostate is healthy or not.
Talk to your doctors
The best way to determine if you should be screened for prostate cancer is to talk to your doctor. Set up an appointment by calling Dr. Kaplon at (941) 917-8488