What is done to screen for prostate cancer?
For an annual screening a physician will evaluate the patient in the exam room by performing two tests; a blood test call PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) and a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE). If either one of these tests have abnormal results the physician will suggest that a prostate biopsy be done. The biopsy is administered by a urologist in their office using an ultrasound that is inserted into the rectum. The procedure usually only takes 5 minutes and local anesthetic is used so the patient does not feel much discomfort. During the procedure small fragments of the prostate tissue are obtained and sent to a pathologist to examine. Most men despise seeing a physician for a yearly physical, much less having a prostate exam performed, but it is important to remember that this short exam could save your life and the physician will make it as comfortable as possible. What treatments are available for prostate cancer? In general early prostate cancer can be treated surgically or through some
