Prostate health is an essential part of men's overall wellness, but many men feel anxious when they hear the words prostate exam or prostate screening. However, today's screening methods are simpler, more accurate, and less invasive than many realize. At Advanced Urology, we focus on modern approaches that prioritize accuracy and patient comfort, with the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test now serving as the primary way we check for prostate concerns.
Why Prostate Screening Matters
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located beneath the bladder that produces fluid to help protect and nourish sperm. As men age, the prostate naturally enlarges, and conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, or prostate cancer may develop.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, but it is also highly treatable when detected early. That's why prostate exams and PSA tests are so important: they allow doctors to detect potential issues before symptoms progress, giving patients the best chance for effective treatment.
PSA Test: The Primary Prostate Screening Method
The PSA test has become the standard in prostate screening. This simple blood test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in your bloodstream. PSA is a protein made by the prostate, and higher levels can be a sign of prostate cancer, an enlarged prostate, or inflammation.
The test itself takes only a few minutes. A small blood sample is drawn from your arm and sent to a lab. Results are usually available within days, making it one of the quickest and most reliable tools for evaluating prostate health.
It's important to know that an elevated PSA does not automatically mean cancer. PSA levels can rise due to infection, vigorous exercise, certain medications, or even recent sexual activity. For this reason, your doctor will consider your test results alongside your age, medical history, and other risk factors.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Less Common Today
The digital rectal exam, or DRE, was once a routine part of prostate exams. In this brief procedure, a doctor feels the prostate through the rectal wall to check for size and irregularities. While still used in some cases, the DRE is much less common today.
At Advanced Urology, our team relies primarily on the PSA test. A DRE may still be recommended in certain situations, but for most men, PSA testing alone provides the key information needed for screening.
When Should Men Start Prostate Screening?
The age to begin prostate exams depends on your risk factors. General guidelines recommend:
Age 50 for men at average risk
Age 45 for African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer
Age 40 for men with multiple close relatives who had prostate cancer
Your doctor will also determine how often you need follow-up testing. While some men benefit from annual PSA tests, others may only need screenings every few years, depending on their results and personal health history.
How to Prepare for a PSA Test
Because PSA levels can be temporarily influenced by lifestyle factors, small adjustments before your test can improve accuracy. Doctors generally recommend avoiding ejaculation and vigorous exercise, especially biking, for 48 hours before your appointment. Always tell your provider about any medications or supplements you're taking, as some can affect PSA levels.
What to Expect During a Prostate Exam
When you schedule a prostate exam, your appointment typically begins with a discussion of your health history and any symptoms you may have. Your doctor will review risk factors such as family history, urinary symptoms, and past screening results.
If a PSA test is ordered, it will involve a routine blood draw, which only takes a few minutes. If a DRE is performed, it is a quick physical exam lasting less than a minute. Your provider will explain what to expect beforehand and ensure you are as comfortable as possible throughout the process.
Understanding Your PSA Results
PSA results are measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) of blood. While there isn't a universal cutoff for normal versus abnormal, general ranges include:
Below 4.0 ng/mL: Often considered within normal limits
4.0-10.0 ng/mL: Slightly elevated, may require further evaluation
Above 10.0 ng/mL: Significantly elevated, usually leading to more testing
Because many factors influence PSA levels, your provider will interpret results in context, considering age, prostate size, lifestyle, and health history.
What Happens if PSA Is Elevated?
If your PSA results are higher than expected, your doctor may recommend additional steps to confirm or rule out concerns. These can include repeat PSA testing, advanced imaging like MRI, or a prostate biopsy. Sometimes active surveillance is the best approach.
The goal is always to avoid unnecessary procedures while ensuring early detection of any potential issues.
Life After a Prostate Exam
Most men can return to their normal activities immediately after a PSA test or DRE. Your provider will contact you with results and guide you through next steps, whether that's scheduling your next routine screening or pursuing further testing.
Your urologist may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet, all of which can support long-term prostate health.
Advanced Urology's Approach to Prostate Screening
At Advanced Urology, we combine modern testing methods with a patient-first philosophy. Our board-certified urologists prioritize PSA testing as the main tool for prostate cancer detection, using DRE only when clinically appropriate.
We also offer advanced diagnostics, including state-of-the-art imaging and minimally invasive biopsy techniques, designed to provide accuracy while minimizing discomfort. Most importantly, we take the time to explain results, answer questions, and partner with patients in their long-term health journey.
Take Charge of Your Prostate Health
A prostate exam today is not something to fear. With the PSA test as the primary screening method, prostate exams are quick, minimally invasive, and provide invaluable insight into your health.
If you're due for a prostate screening or have questions about your prostate health, don't delay. Early detection is the most powerful tool in fighting prostate cancer and addressing other prostate conditions.
Contact Advanced Urology today to schedule your PSA test and take the next step toward protecting your long-term health.
This article is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider about your individual health needs and screening schedule.
