Prostate cancer becomes more common as you age.
There is also an increased risk if you have at least one close relative who has been previously diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 65.
There are many different types of prostate cancer, with many growing slowly and never causing harm. Prostate cancer is a tumor that starts in the prostate gland.
A small percentage of prostate cancers can spread to other parts of the body and cause serious harm, and even death.
For many years, a blood test called a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) has been used as a screening tool for prostate cancer.
Recent studies by medical bodies have discovered that this test is not necessarily accurate, and it is no longer recommended as a screening tool for healthy men. The research has found that PSA levels can be elevated, due to many causes, and these have been recording “false positives”, which then lead to further and unnecessary biopsies and invasive procedures.
The PSA test is now mainly used for those men who have symptoms that may suggest a prostate problem, such as urinary hesitancy, poor stream and dribbling at the end of urination. However, these symptoms don’t necessarily mean cancer and it is important to speak to your doctor.
There are resources available for patients with Prostate cancer, or for those who may be concerned. It’s important to remember that you are not alone, and you can seek support from friends and family as well as your doctor and other specialists.
If you are aged between 50 and 69 years, or have symptoms you are concerned about, or would like to discuss the PSA test further, please make an appointment to see your GP today.
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