With an increase in awareness regarding the potential for prostate cancer, more and more males are now aware of what their prostate actually is. For those that are unsure, the prostate is a gland that is only present in males. It is around the size of a walnut and can be found in the pelvis area, not far from the bladder.
The role of the prostate is to help produce seminal fluid. This clearly means that the prostate plays a vital role in a male’s reproductive ability. As a male ejaculates, the prostate mixes prostatic fluid in the urethra with the sperm. This fluid is what allows the sperm to travel and is important when it comes to any pregnancy.
There are times when issues with the prostate can arise. This can be linked to an infection, enlargement, or in the worst case, potentially cancer. Prostate cancer is the 2nd most common form of cancer in males, in the USA, but it’s also one of the most treatable. Prostate checks are a vital way of catching this early meaning that there is a higher chance of effectively treating it.
What does a prostate check involve?
When it comes to a prostate check, males are often prompted to have this carried out after having one or more of the following symptoms:
- An increased need to urinate
- Straining to be able to pass urine
- Feeling like your bladder is constantly full
A prostate check will usually involve two separate procedures which are a digital rectal exam (DRE) and the testing of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels.
PSA
Having PSA levels checked involves a blood test which is then sent to a lab for analysis. The level of PSA is measured in nanograms per millilitre (ng/ml). This is how the results are interpreted:
- Under 4 Ng/ml – classed a normal levels
- 4 Ng/ml – 10 Ng/ml – intermediate/borderline levels
- 10 Ng/ml plus – high levels of PSA
DRE
A DRE is a physical examination where you will be required to bend down at the wait or alternatively lay down on your side and bring your knees to your chest. The doctor will then lubricate one finger of their gloves and gently insert this into your rectum. While touching your prostate the other hand will hold your pelvic area. This allows the doctor to judge whether your prostate is enlarged or inflamed, and the examination only lasts a few moments.
Who should have a prostate check?
A prostate check is an important health check for males as an early diagnosis of prostate cancer leads to a much greater survival rate. Allowing this to go unfound means that the cancer may spread to other parts of the body and this has a detrimental impact on the chances of recovery. Those who should routinely be checked include:
- Those aged over 50
- Those aged 45 or over if classed as high risk
- Those aged 40 or over who have had a close relative diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 65
Other at-risk groups include African Americans and those who are obese. A prostate check may be capable of putting your mind at ease, but even in the worst-case scenario, such a check could ultimately save your life.
