What is the screening test for prostate cancer?
The main screening test for prostate cancer is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. This is a blood test that measures how much PSA is in your blood. A high level may mean that you have an enlarged prostate, an infection, or cancer.
Along with the PSA test, you may have a digital (finger) rectal exam. This exam checks for anything abnormal in your prostate. To do the exam, the doctor puts a lubricated, gloved finger into your rectum.
If these tests suggest cancer, you may need a prostate biopsy to see if there are cancer cells in the prostate.
Who should be screened for prostate cancer?
The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test can help find prostate cancer early. But experts recommend that you discuss the benefits and risks of the test with your doctor before you decide whether to have this test. It may not help you live any longer than if you had no screening. And it could lead to harmful treatments that you don't need.
Talk with your doctor about your health, your risk factors for prostate cancer, and the pros and cons of PSA testing.
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