How is prostate cancer checked?
There is no single test that can tell you if you have prostate cancer. Your doctor will consider your age, family history, symptoms and other risk factors when deciding which tests may be right for you.
- PSA blood test: A simple blood test that measures a protein made by the prostate. A higher PSA level does not always mean cancer. Other prostate problems can also cause PSA levels to rise.
- Digital rectal exam (DRE): Your doctor feels the prostate through the rectum to check for changes in its size, shape or texture. A DRE may be done along with a PSA test.
- Imaging tests: If your PSA level or exam raises concerns, your doctor may recommend an MRI or other imaging to get a closer look at the prostate.
- Prostate biopsy: If testing shows a possible problem, your doctor may recommend a biopsy. During a biopsy, small samples of prostate tissue are removed and checked for cancer. A biopsy is the only way to confirm prostate cancer.
When should you get checked?
There is no one screening schedule that is right for every man.
Talk with your doctor about when you should start screening and how often you should be screened. Your doctor will consider your age, family history, overall health and other risk factors.
One important thing to remember: early prostate cancer often has no symptoms.
You don’t have to wait until you have a problem to talk with your doctor. If you’re not sure whether you should be screened, ask. Your doctor can help you understand your risk and decide what’s right for you.
What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
Early prostate cancer often does not cause symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- A weak or interrupted urine stream
- Blood in your urine or semen
- Needing to urinate more often, especially at night
- Ongoing pain in your back, hips or pelvis
- Pain when you urinate or ejaculate
- Trouble starting or stopping when you urinate
These symptoms do not always mean you have prostate cancer. Other conditions, including an enlarged prostate, can cause similar symptoms.
If you notice changes in how you urinate or have other concerns, talk with your doctor.
How is prostate cancer treated?
If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, your treatment will depend on the type and stage of cancer, how quickly it is growing, your overall health and your preferences.
Treatment may include:
- Active surveillance: Some prostate cancers grow so slowly that they do not need to be treated right away. With active surveillance, your doctor closely watches the cancer with regular tests and follow-up visits.
- Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy lowers or blocks hormones that can help prostate cancer grow.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells.
- Surgery: Surgery removes the prostate and, in some cases, nearby tissue.
- Other treatments: Your doctor may recommend other medicines or treatments based on your cancer and your overall health.
Your care team will explain your options and help you decide what treatment is right for you.
