Early detection is the hallmark of successful treatment of prostate cancer. Usually there are no warning signs for prostate cancer. As the cancer progresses, symptoms can be very non-specific and might include a change in your urinary or bowel habits or a new onset of bone pain. Regular physical exams and PSA tests will aid in the earlier diagnosis of prostate cancer. PSA is a simple blood test that can be done in most doctors’ offices or laboratories. The American Cancer Society recommends that beginning at age 50, all men should have yearly PSA blood tests and physical exams.Men with a close relative who has had prostate cancer and African-American men should have yearly exams starting at age 40.

Because of regular screening, the majority of men are now diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early, curable stage. In contrast, 20 years ago, most men were not diagnosed until the cancer had already grown and spread to other parts of the body.

Prostate Cancer Screening Guidelines (PSA Test and Physical Examination) African-American Males Yearly, starting at 40 Men with a family history of prostate cancer Yearly, starting at 40 All other men Yearly, starting at 50