Prostate Cancer Screening

Prostate cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the prostate. The prostate is part of the male reproductive system. It’s a small organ below the bladder that makes fluid for semen. The prostate also releases prostate-specific antigen (PSA) into the blood.

Prostate cancer screenings can be done through blood tests, such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. A PSA test measures the amount of PSA in your blood. A high PSA level in the blood may mean your prostate is enlarged or infected. It could also mean you have prostate cancer. PSA tests are available through your physician, at our Checkup Day sites for a nominal fee, or at community outreach events.  

Along with a PSA test, some patients may have a digital rectal exam. This exam is performed with a lubricated, gloved finger inserted into the rectum and allows the doctor to exam for abnormalities in your prostate. 

• Under age 54: No routine PSA-based screening is recommended.
• Ages 55–69: This group receives the greatest benefit of screening; there should be shared decision-making based on the patient’s values and preferences, life expectancy, and cancer risk
• Over age 70 or any patient with a 10-to-15-year life expectancy: No routine PSA-based screening is recommended; some men over 70 who are in exceptional health may benefit from screening.
• African American patients or those with family history of prostate cancer: Talk to your doctor about screening before age 55.

If a digital (finger) rectal exam is abnormal or your PSA levels are elevated, the PSA test is usually repeated after three to six months. If levels are still elevated, you may require additional blood tests to determine if the elevation is benign. The next step is often an MRI if the blood test results are still a concern. Then, if necessary, a prostate biopsy may be performed to see if there are cancer cells in the prostate.