Screening
There is no one test or procedure that everyone agrees is helpful for screening men for prostate cancer. Two commonly used tests are:
- Digital rectal exam (DRE): A doctor examines your prostate with a gloved finger to look for unusual lumps or growth.
- Prostate-specific antigen test (PSA): This blood test looks for higher levels of PSA in the blood, which may indicate the presence of prostate cancer.
A biopsy of the prostate may follow an abnormal DRE or elevated PSA. The decision to get screened depends on many factors, including a man’s family history, age, race and symptoms. Discuss the risk and benefits of screening with your doctor.
Signs and Symptoms
Men are often diagnosed with prostate cancer following a digital rectal exam (DRE) or a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test. Early prostate cancer usually causes no symptoms. Advanced prostate cancer can cause symptoms such as:
- Weak urine stream
- Blood in urine or semen
- Swelling in the legs
- Discomfort or evidence of swollen lymph nodes in the pelvic area
- Bone pain
- Weight loss
- Tiredness
If you experience any of these symptoms, speak with your doctor right away. If your primary care doctor determines that you have prostate cancer, ask to be referred to a specialist in medical oncology, radiation oncology and/or urology for confirmation of your diagnosis and next steps.