Annual Prostate Screening
Annual Screenings for Men 40 & Over
Detecting prostate cancer early is crucial. It’s a slow-growing disease that produces few symptoms and has a much greater likelihood of cure when diagnosed the early stages. The American Cancer Society [ACS] recommends that all men, beginning at age 40, have a yearly digital rectal exam. In addition, for men age 50 and over, the ACS recommends a yearly blood test for prostate-specific antigen [PSA].
A DRE is a physical exam of the prostate and is a very important component of the detection process. The physician examines the prostate [through the rectal wall] by inserting a lubricated, gloved finger into the patient's rectum.
PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. An elevated level in the blood can be an indicator of cancer. High levels are considered to be over 10 nanograms per milliliter [ng/ml]; borderline levels are 4 to 10 ng/ml; and levels under 4 ng/ml are usually normal.
Are you at risk for prostate cancer?
For more information, or for a physician referral, please call MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital at 443.444.4100.
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