Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), approximately one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Individual risk factors can vary based on age, race, and other variables. However, early detection is crucial, as it ensures effective treatment before the cancer advances and spreads to other organs. While prostate cancer is often asymptomatic, regular screening is essential. However, if symptoms do appear, prompt testing and medical attention are crucial for early diagnosis and better outcomes. Read to know all about the warning signs and when to get screened for prostate cancer.
Also Read: What Young Men Need To Know About Prostate Cancer Prevention: Tips To Reduce Risk
At What Age Should Men Get Themselves Screened For Prostate Cancer?
"In general, high-risk individuals, such as those of African descent, those with a family history of prostate cancer or multiple cancers, those with Lynch syndrome, or those with known high-risk germline mutations like BRCA2, should begin annual Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) screenings for prostate cancer by the age of 45," says Dr Pratik Patil, Consultant - Oncology, Jupiter Hospital, Pune.
He added, "For males at average risk, screenings should begin no later than 50 years after a thorough discussion of the benefits and drawbacks of such testing. The testing should continue until the patients are 70-75 years old.
"Due to the substantial variability of PSA testing findings, it is advisable to collect two different specimens before undertaking additional investigations in individuals with abnormal PSA increases."
Warning Signs To Get A Prostate Cancer Screening
Early-stage prostate cancer is rarely symptomatic. However, when the condition progresses, the condition may cause certain symptoms, such as:
- The desire to urinate is frequent and often intense, especially at night.
- Weak urine flow or intermittent flow
- Dysuria (sensation of pain or burning during passing urine)
- Lack of bladder control (urinary incontinence)
- Faecal incontinence (loss of bowel control)
- Ejaculation is painful, as is erectile dysfunction.
- Blood in semen (hematospermia) or urine
- You feel pain in your lower back, hips, or chest.
How Often Should You Get Screened For Prostate Cancer?
Screening for men at low to moderate risk may begin between the ages of 45. Men of low to moderate risk, aged 55-69, may be screened every 2-4 years.
Men 75 years or older with a PSA <3 ng/mL may have their rescreening interval extended or possibly stopped.
Also Read: Prostate Cancer Awareness Month: Expert Explains When, Why, And How Often Should You Be Screened?
Factors That Increase The Risk Of Prostate Cancer
Some of the most common risk factors for prostate cancer include:
- Age: people over the age of 50 are more likely to be diagnosed. People over the age of 65 account for almost 60% of all prostate cancer cases.
- Race and ethnicity: You're more vulnerable if you're Black or of African descent. You are more likely to get prostate cancer, which is more likely to spread. You also have a higher chance of developing prostate cancer before the age of fifty.
- A family history of prostate cancer: You are 2-3 times more likely to get prostate cancer if a close family member has it.
- Genetics: If you have Lynch syndrome or inherited mutant (modified) genes linked to an elevated risk of breast cancer (BRCA1 and BRCA2), you are more likely to develop the disease.
Screening Methods For Prostate Cancer
In addition to identifying the signs, there are various tests that can help confirm prostate cancer. Screening tests can reveal whether you have symptoms of prostate cancer that necessitate additional testing. These include:
- Digital rectal exam: Your physician slips a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to feel your prostate gland. Bumps or hard regions may indicate malignancy.
- PSA blood test: The prostate gland produces a protein known as protein-specific antigen (PSA).
If you have high PSA levels, it might suggest malignancy. However, an elevated PSA level does not necessarily mean prostate cancer. PSA levels grow even if you have benign illnesses like Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), also known as prostate enlargement, or prostatitis, a condition that causes inflammation or infection of the prostate gland.
Conclusion
Prostate cancer can be life-threatening, especially if detected late or left untreated. Early warning signs are crucial for timely detection, and screening tests play a key role in confirming the condition. Regular and timely screenings are essential for early diagnosis. Don’t wait for pain or severe symptoms to appear; prioritise your prostate health and schedule regular check-ups for early intervention.