There is no official screening program for prostatic cancer. However, two screening tests enable early detection: a test to determine the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and a rectal touch examination.
For any questions:
Screening tests for prostatic cancer are usually offered to men aged 50 years or more with a life expectancy of at least 10 more years.
Should you have a high risk of developing prostatic cancer, you may want to pass the test as of age 45. Men of Black ethnic origin (including sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean) as well as those with a family history of prostatic cancer are deemed “high-risk”.
This is essentially a very simple blood test that measures the amount of PSA (a protein produced by prostate cells). When the amount of PSA is high or increases over time, this antigen volume then points to an issue with the prostate, which is not necessarily cancer. Your healthcare professional may recommend additional testing to determine the cause.
The PSA test results will in turn determine the frequency at which further tests will be performed.
This examination consists of a healthcare professional inserting a finger into your rectum. This allows for checking the size and shape of the prostate as well as identifying the presence of any anomalies or unusual forms. The examination is not painful but can entail a certain degree of discomfort.
The two previously mentioned tests are most useful when done in tandem.
It is important to understand that these exams are not 100% reliable and come with both advantages and inconveniences.
Read this article to learn more about the advantages and limitations of prostatic cancer screening.
While some prostatic cancers are aggressive and require treatment, this is not always the case. Some cancers develop slowly and may never pose a problem, i.e., only require monitoring.
If you develop symptoms such as urinary issues or erectile dysfunction, or if you are concerned about your health and wish to undergo screening tests, speak with your attending physician.
If you do not have access to a family doctor, turn to the Primary Care Access Point.
For more information, call the Info-cancer Hotline at 1-800-363-0063.
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