As with all cancers, early detection and diagnosis lead to more successful treatments and better outcomes. In the early stages, prostate cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms, making it a silent threat. Staying on top of prostate cancer screenings is an important way to catch the disease early. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that starting at age 55, men discuss the potential benefits and harms of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening with their doctor to decide whether to get screened.
The PSA test is one of the most common methods used to screen for prostate cancer. It measures the levels of a protein called prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer, but not always. Other conditions, like prostate infections or an enlarged prostate, can also cause higher PSA levels.
A Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) is another prostate cancer screening exam. During a DRE, your healthcare provider examines the rectum using a gloved, lubricated finger, to feel for abnormalities in the prostate gland. This exam may be uncomfortable, but it can help identify areas of concern requiring further investigation through a biopsy.
Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging (mpMRI) can also detect prostate cancer. This technique provides detailed prostate images and can indicate suspicious areas or lesions within the prostate gland. This imaging method is increasingly used to guide biopsy procedures and improve the accuracy of prostate cancer diagnoses.
City of Hope physicians use state-of-the-art technology to ensure an accurate, comprehensive prostate cancer diagnosis. You can learn more about City of Hope’s prostate cancer program here. Contact Enterprise New Patient Services at 844-486-2399 or email NewPatientreferral@coh.org to make an appointment.