Nobody really likes to talk about it, and it’s famed for being an uncomfortable, yet quick, procedure. An annual prostate check should become part of men’s annual medical checkups, especially after the age of 40.

Why a prostate check is important

According to CANSA, the lifetime risk for Prostate Cancer in South African men is 1 in 19. Prostate Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed Cancer among men across the country, and regular participation in preventative screening can enable early diagnosis and treatment.

When to get your prostate checked

If there is a history of Prostate Cancer in your family, it’s advised that you start undergoing checks from the age of between 40 to 45. If you’re considered to be of average risk, then starting screening from the age of 50 is recommended. If, however, you are in any way concerned about your prostate health, chat to your doctor immediately.

What happens in a prostate exam?

There are two primary types of prostate checks:

• Blood test: A vial of blood will be drawn from you, and tested for Prostate-specific antigen, also known as PSA. An elevated PSA level can be an indicator for Prostate Cancer.
• A digital rectal exam: During this short procedure, a doctor will check the prostate for any lumps or abnormalities.

What to watch out for

Prostate cancer is all too common, and the symptoms are often regarded as easy to ignore. Early detection is vital. If you’re concerned about your health, book an appointment and chat to your doctor about screening methods and your medical history. Here are a few things to watch for:

• Frequent urination
• Weak or interrupted urination
• Blood in the urine or seminal fluid
• Pain or burning during urination
• Discomfort when sitting down

For more information on Prostate Cancer, visit the CANSA website to access informative resources.

If you’re concerned about your health, book an appointment with our GP at Jewel City Medical Centre.