One out of 10 men will have a positive prostate cancer diagnosis in their lifetime.
Early detection is key to battling this type of cancer.
However, when should a man go for his first prostate exam?
The answer to that question depends on the risk.
Statistics show that older men past 65 are more at-risk for prostate cancer than younger men.
Non-Hispanics, including white and African-American men, are more at risk than Hispanics.
Men with a close relative with prostate cancer are more at risk.
The Age Brackets
Most men will fall into the average cancer risk.
Those aged 50 at average risk should get regular screening.
This is the age where doctors advise you to get your first prostate exam as well as other regular procedures like colon exams.
This is a preventive measure so men shouldn’t get concerned if their doctor suggests this after their 50th birthday.
High Risk Men
Men who are considered at high-risk for prostate cancer may be advised by a doctor to start screening at 45 years old.
High-risk includes African American men and those who have a family history of prostate cancer.
The risk grows if family members diagnosed with prostate cancer are first-degree relatives like a father or brother.
It grows more if prostate cancer was diagnosed in those younger than 65 years old
Extremely High Risk
Men who have more than one first-degree relative diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age, like a
father and a brother diagnosed when they are under 65 years old, are considered extremely high risk.
Doctors will advise these men to start their prostate exams at 40 years old.
Get the Blood Test
The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test is a modern day advancement that can identify those at risk.
It doesn’t replace the digital rectal exam (DRE) but it can be a double-check on risks.
Prostate cancer grows slowly so doctors aren’t as aggressive with testing the older a man gets.
Those who don’t have a 10-year life expectancy aren’t going to benefit much from screening.
Doctors also look at the man’s overall health as well as age when advising on screening.
You should discuss screening with your doctor as you approach middle age.
There are pros and cons and your doctor can advise you better on when you should start screening
depending on your health and family history.
