How to Detect Early Signs of Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men following skin cancer. Older men are more likely to develop prostate cancer than younger so it becomes important to identify this medical condition before it’s too late. That becomes the question is, how to detect early signs of prostate cancer?

It is reported that early-stage prostate cancer doesn’t produce significant signs and symptoms. That said, it is possible to detect the growth of malignant tumors in your pelvis earlier through several tests. Read more and get more insights on prostate cancer diagnosis.

How to Detect Early Signs of Prostate Cancer

Screening is the most effective method to detect prostate cancer as early as possible. Even if you experience no symptoms, the tests can tell you if your prostate is healthy or if there is unwanted growth in it.

Finding cancer in its early stage will increase the survival rate. In the event the screening results show that you develop prostate cancer, the healthcare provider can suggest appropriate treatment options according to the stage.

Prostate cancer screening involves two different kinds of tests: PSA and rectal examination. Both tests are effective to detect cancer early although they are not 100 percent accurate.

1. PSA

PSA is kind of test that measures PSA levels in your blood. PSA is a kind of protein made by your prostate and prostate cancer. This test is easy to do and it is available in a hospital or lab.

Healthy prostate produces very little protein which is shown by lower PSA levels in the blood. On the contrary, a high result in the PSA test may indicate the presence of prostate cancer in your pelvis. However, it can also be caused by a benign enlargement or prostate inflammation.

If your PSA test shows a rise in PSA levels, consult with your doctor for a further investigation. Your doctor may suggest other tests for affirmation.

2. DRE

Rectal examination is another option of how to detect early signs of prostate cancer. Your doctor will put a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum and feels for thickness or abnormal shape of the prostate. This procedure is safe and easy to do.

During the exam, the patient may lie curled on one side or bend over so the doctor can easily reach the prostate. However, this method alone cannot detect early cancer and it should be combined with a PSA test.

Warning Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Some individuals refuse to get themselves screened because they don’t notice any symptoms. In fact, screening is recommended especially if you have higher risks of prostate cancer, such as those older than 50, African-American, or have a family history.

Most cases of prostate cancer don’t produce warning signs. As the cancer advances, you may notice some signs and effects, including:

• Painful ejaculation or urination
• Soreness in the pelvic area
• Blood in semen or urine
• Lower back pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Bone pain
  
  

Can You Prevent Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer can be prevented by practicing a healthy lifestyle. Things that are good for heart health can keep this type of cancer away. Eat right, workouts, and monitor your weight so you can lower the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Some doctors and healthcare providers believe certain drugs like dutasteride and finasteride can prevent this cancer but others consider they slow the progress. But it is unclear if these drugs play a role in preventing or suppressing the development of prostate cancer.

To sum up, how to detect early signs of prostate cancer can be conducted by conducting two screening tests including PSA and DRE. Both tests are effective to find abnormality in the prostate although it is not 100 percent accurate.