A prostate screen is a test to locate signs of cancer before you have symptoms. The tests are not the be-all, end-all authority, but if your results are abnormal, doctors can look further to catch prostate cancer before you show symptoms. The sooner you find prostate cancer, the more likely your survival rate is higher. If you do receive abnormal results, doctors can do a prostate biopsy to know for sure if you have cancer.
Types of Prostate Screening Tests
Doctors have several tests they can do to screen for prostate cancer in the hopes of catching it early.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test: PSA is a protein created by normal and cancerous cells in your prostate gland. While PSA is found in semen, there is a small amount in your blood. If your PSA is 4ng/mL or higher, your doctor may recommend further testing to verify whether you have prostate cancer.
- Percent-Free PSA: This test shows how much PSA is circulating free in the blood. The other type attaches itself to blood proteins. All men have both, though most men who have a lower percentage of free PSA may have prostate cancer and will need further tests.
- Complexed PSA: This test monitors how much PSA is attached to blood proteins.
- Combination Tests: Some of the newer tests on the market combine the results of free and attached PSA to get a more accurate reading for potential prostate cancer. These tests include the prostate health index and the 4Kscore test.
- Digital Rectal Exam: The doctor does a physical exam to see if he can feel any hard areas or bumps that should not be there.
If you have regular screening, doctors can also track PSA velocity – how fast your PSA rises over time. The PSA density is often used for men who have larger prostate glands.
Finally, doctors look at your age since PSA levels are often higher in older men.
Where to Find Prostate Cancer Screening in Los Angeles, CA
Atlas Men’s Clinic, Sexual Health & Wellness, serves Los Angeles, San Diego, Bakersfield, Orange, and the surrounding areas in California. To find out more about prostate cancer screening, speak with a doctor at Atlas Men’s Clinic. To arrange a consultation, please call 323-677-2013 in Los Angeles, 619-932-4461 in San Diego, 661-443-3375 in Bakersfield, or 714-667-1000 in Orange.
