At some point in time, all men should be tested for prostate cancer. While healthcare professionals recommend getting regular screenings beginning at the age of 50, African-American men, who have higher rates of prostate cancer than any other ethnic group, should consider getting screenings as early as age 40, especially if they have a family history of the disease. If that’s you, consult with your doctor and create a plan that’s right for you.
There are two primary tests to determine whether you have prostate cancer, and while one of the tests is a bit invasive and many men try to avoid it, it can save your life. The digital rectal (DRE) exam and the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test are the two most common prostate cancer exams. During the DRE exam, the doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to feel the back wall of the prostate gland to check for any bumps or hard areas on the prostate. Those types of abnormalities could be an indication that something is wrong.