In order to keep an eye on the prostate and in particular watch out for prostate cancer, there is a prostate test that every man should be aware of, especially men over the age of 50, as they are most prone to developing prostate cancer.
The Prostate Test
The prostate test, more specifically the prostate-specific antigen test, is a test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, in the patient’s blood. The process of this prostate test is quite simple – the doctor takes a sample of the patient’s blood, and then the level of PSA in the blood is measured in a laboratory.
It is very normal for men to have a rather low level of PSA in their blood, however it is important to realize that prostate cancer and other related health conditions tend to raise PSA levels, and so if your level is even remotely higher than usual, your doctor will want to run further tests.
In regards to what group this prostate test is recommended to, the considerations on this matter vary. Some encourage yearly screening for men over the age of 50, while others advise men who are at a higher risk for developing prostate cancer to begin screening as early as age 40.
Controversy
There is a fair bit of controversy surrounding this test, and this is because it is not yet actually known whether or not the test saves lives. More specifically, as of yet it is not entirely clear if the benefits of PSA screening actually outweigh the risks of follow-up diagnostic tests and cancer treatments.
It is really important that you work together with your doctor here, as they will be able to better explain issues regarding this test with you, and let you know their opinion on whether you should take it or not. Of course the final decision is basically entirely up to you, and so the best way that you can make the most informed and intelligent decision here is by making yourself as knowledgeable on the subject as possible.
Take the time to learn about the prostate test on your own time, through pamphlets, brochures and using the Internet is a great option as well, so that you can become more informed and aware. When it comes to matters of the health education is essential, and although you do have your doctor there, you yourself need to be aware of what is going on.