Prostate Cancer Prevention and Screening

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, aside from skin cancer, and the second-leading cause of cancer death in men behind lung cancer. But the good news is that many prostate cancers are slow-growing and, when caught early, can often be effectively treated.

Knowing risk factors and symptoms for prostate cancer and when to get screened is important for early detection.

Risk factors

Age. Prostate cancer is rare in younger men. After age 50, the risk for prostate cancer increases.

Family history. The risk of developing prostate cancer more than doubles if you have a first-degree relative (father or brother) who has had the disease.

Inherited gene changes. Some inherited gene changes (also known as mutations) can increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. Those mutations may include BRCA1 or BRCA 2 genes. Men with Lynch syndrome have also been shown to have a higher prostate cancer risk.

Ethnicity. African American men are at higher risk of developing prostate cancer and twice as likely to die from the disease.

Screening

Screening for prostate cancer is commonly performed through a noninvasive blood test known as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, or a digital rectal exam. However, it’s important to discuss your individual risk factors with your doctor or other health care provider to decide whether to have a PSA screening.

We recommend the following screening guidance:

• Those at high risk — African American men or men with a first-degree relative (father or brother) who has had prostate cancer — should start the conversation about screening as early as age 40.
• Men at average risk who are 55 and older should discuss PSA screening with their doctor.