BENEFITS OF EARLY DETECTION All men are at risk of prostate cancer. Finding the disease early means the best chance of curing it. When found early, 99% of men will be alive five years later. Prostate cancer generally shows no symptoms until it is at an advanced stage. The earlier prostate cancer is detected, the more treatment options are available. The only way to detect it early is with a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, and a rectal exam may also be recommended – both are quick and simple. • PSA Test – Determines the level of PSA in the blood. Levels of PSA can be higher in men with prostate cancer. • Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) – A test done when a physician inserts a finger into the rectum to determine the health profile of the prostate.
GUIDELINES FOR EARLY DETECTION The National Comprehensive Cancer Network ® (NCCN ® ) and ZERO recommend a man should be educated about prostate cancer and understand his options for early detection. Talk with your doctor about your personal risk and the guidelines to make a plan for testing. Beginning at about age 45, all men should talk to their doctor about screening for prostate cancer. If you are Black or have a family history of prostate cancer or other cancers, you may be at higher risk and should talk to your doctor beginning at age 40.
VETERANS PROSTATE CANCER GUIDE
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