How To Guide: Prostate Cancer Checkup for Beginners

Prostate cancer screening is designed to detect the disease early — improving the chances of successful treatment. But if you’re wondering what to expect, you’re not alone. Find out what happens at a prostate cancer checkup here.

Your prostate is a small, walnut-sized organ located just below your bladder and in front of your rectum. It produces seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm — but did you know that prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer among men in the United States?

It’s a significant health concern for men, particularly as they age. The good news is that prostate cancer checkups can identify the disease in its early stages when treatment is most effective.

At Path MD Labs, our team specializes in prostate cancer detection in Los Angeles, California. We offer in-depth sample analysis, along with second opinions and consultations for patients facing prostate cancer diagnoses.

The basics of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer happens when abnormal cells in your prostate start to grow uncontrollably. Prostate cancer is second only to skin cancer, and about one in seven men get it in their lifetimes.

Most types of prostate cancer grow slowly, and they often remain confined to the prostate gland. However, certain forms can be aggressive and spread quickly. That means getting regular prostate cancer checkups should be part of your health care plan.

Why is prostate cancer screening important?

Screening for prostate cancer can detect the disease at an early stage when it’s most treatable. Early detection significantly increases your chances of successful treatment and can help prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of your body.

Screening recommendations for prostate cancer vary based on age, risk factors, and family history. In general, men with an average risk of prostate cancer should consider starting prostate cancer checkups at age 50.

Men at higher risk — such as Black men and those with a first-degree relative (father or brother) diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65 — should consider beginning screening at age 45. If you have multiple first-degree relatives diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age, you should consider starting screening at age 40.

The frequency of screening depends on your initial prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level and your individual risk factors.

What to expect at your prostate cancer screening

Prostate cancer screening typically involves two main tests: the PSA blood test and the digital rectal exam (DRE). PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells in your prostate gland. The PSA test checks for elevated PSA levels, which may indicate prostate cancer.

In a DRE, your healthcare provider inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into your rectum to feel your prostate gland. They check for any irregularities in size, shape, or texture that might indicate the presence of cancer. While the exam can be uncomfortable, it’s usually quick — and it provides valuable information about the condition of your prostate.

How our urology specialists can help

Our team at Path MD offers advanced urology services, including world-class prostate cancer detection. Utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and techniques, we can provide precise detection of prostate abnormalities.

We also provide second opinions and consultations for complex or unusual cases. Our team is here to thoroughly review initial results to help inform a more complete treatment plan.

Prostate cancer screening is vital to maintaining your health, and understanding what to expect from the screening process can help you stay proactive about your health. Take charge of your health and schedule your prostate cancer screening today. For more information, call us at 424-245-7284 or message us online now.