Prostate cancer is a major health concern for men, and comprehending how it is detected and treated can make a significant difference in outcomes.



Awareness and Statistics

In Australia, 1 in 6 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. About 3,000 of our dads, brothers, husbands, sons and mates will lose their battle every year.

How is Prostate Cancer Detected?

Detecting prostate cancer early is crucial for effective treatment, and there are a couple of key methods used to identify warning signs: the PSA test and the Digital Rectal Examination (DRE).

1.     PSA Test (Blood Test): For men over the age of 50, it's important to have an annual discussion with their doctor about prostate cancer screening. One of the primary tools for this is the PSA blood test. This test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood—a protein produced by both cancerous and non-cancerous prostate tissue. Elevated PSA levels can be an indicator of potential prostate issues, prompting further investigation if necessary.

2.     Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Alongside the PSA test, a Digital Rectal Exam is used to check for abnormalities in the prostate. During a DRE, a doctor inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate for any lumps or irregularities. While this exam can be uncomfortable, it provides valuable information and is commonly used in conjunction with the PSA test.

3.     Discussion of Screening Options: Men need to discuss the benefits and risks of screening with their healthcare provider. Decisions about screening should be based on individual risk factors, including age, family history, and overall health.

When should you talk to your doctor about PSA testing?

As age is a risk factor for prostate cancer, it is best to talk to your doctor when you are 50 years old. But if you have a relative with prostate cancer, your risk may be higher, so it’s best to talk to your doctor when you are 40 to 45 years old.

Bear in mind, if you have any changes or problems with urination, see your doctor straight away.

The following websites provide valuable information to help you decide on screening options and understand more about the disease;

Source:

https://www.prostate.org.au

https://australianprostatecancer.org.au