Approximately 3,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer and 480 die from the disease each year. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the United States and the rate is much higher in African American men. Although prostate cancer is relatively common, it often grows so slowly that it is unlikely to cause health issues during a man’s lifetime. Most men with prostate cancer are older then 50 years and do not die from the disease.
There are two tests commonly used to screen for prostate cancer: Prostate-specific Antigen Blood test (PSA), a substance made by cells in the prostate gland (both normal cells and cancer cells). Simple blood test can detect PSA levels for screening.
Digital rectal exam. For a digital rectal exam (DRE), the doctor inserts a lubricated finger into the rectum to check for any bumps or hard areas on the prostate that might be cancer.
You should speak with your doctor and make and make an informed decision about the screening process.
RISK FACTORS
AGE: Prostate cancer detected at young ages tend to be very aggressive
RACE/ETHNICITY- Prostate cancer is more common in African American men and Caribbean men of African ancestry than men of other races
FAMILY HISTORY – Havng a father or brother with prostate cancer more than doubles a man’s risk of developing this disease.
Source: US Cancer preventive 1-800 227 2345.