Getting Your First Prostate Exam

When men reach a certain age it’s important that they begin getting a prostate exam on a regular basis.  Prostate cancer is a serious concern for men in the United States, with as many as 1 in 7 getting diagnosed with the disease in their lifetime.  While research continues on trying to prevent this condition the current best defense is getting regular prostate exams to catch the condition early and treat it early.

What Happens During A Prostate Exam?

A prostate exam is a process by which the prostate of otherwise healthy people is checked to ensure that there is no abnormalities in it.  Screening early ensures that the condition can be treated easily and has a higher chance of being cured as a result.

When Should I Get A Test Done?

Men who are older than 50 are strongly recommended to have a serious discussion with their provider about regular screenings, and should be receiving tests yearly.  This is true for those who are otherwise healthy and have no factors that put them at a higher risk of prostate cancer. Men who are of African American descent or who have family members who have been diagnosed with this condition should begin getting screened at 45.  Men who have had a family member develop prostate cancer within one generation should start getting checked regularly at 40.

What Kind of Prostate Tests Are Available?

The majority of these exams are performed using a digital rectal exam, while some doctors opt to use a prostate-specific antigen test.  Neither of these tests are capable of creating a confirmed diagnosis of prostate cancer, additional testing will be necessary if signs of the condition are found.  A PSA drug test is becoming the most common first line of testing, but a digital rectal exam is included at the patients consent.

The purpose of a DRE is to palpate (feel) the prostate to check for any abnormalities including swelling.  The PSA drug test measures a protein that is specifically produced by the prostate.

What Does The Prostate Do?

The primary function of the prostate is to produce the fluid that carries sperm during ejaculation.  The combination of this fluid and sperm is called semen. Additionally the muscles of the prostate ensure that this substance is sent to the urethra for ejaculation.

Prostate cancer is very treatable if it is caught early, making it essential that men of the appropriate age begin receiving their tests early.  If you’re close to the age that means you should start receiving these tests than its time to schedule an appointment with your physician. If you don’t have a physician or are looking for a new one pick up the phone and give Dr. Sam Olu Faleye a call at the Prime Health Medical Center in Memphis, TN.  Their team of specialists have been working with men to help them catch signs of prostate cancer early so that they can live long and healthy lives with proper treatment. Don’t let prostate cancer endanger your life, start getting checked regularly.