According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 out of every 100 American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. The most common risk factor to developing prostate cancer is age; the older you are the higher your chances of developing prostate cancer. Other factors that may increase your risk of prostate cancer include being of African American descent or having a family history of prostate cancer.
Being screened for prostate cancer is a personal choice, and you should discuss the risks and benefits of testing with your primary care physician. If you choose to get tested for prostate cancer, testing can begin at the age of 50 for men with average risk, at the age of 45 for men at high risk and at the age of 40 for men at even higher risk.
High risk individuals include African American men and all men with one direct family member who had prostate cancer before age 65 (a brother or father). Individuals with an even higher risk are those who have two direct family members who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 65.
Testing options are a PSA blood test and/or digital rectal exam. You doctor can help you determine which test is best for you.
This is a blood test that measures PSA, a substance produced by the prostate. Levels can be higher in men with prostate cancer. However, elevated levels may be attributed to other factors, including medications, medical procedures, infection and an enlarged prostate.
The healthcare provider inserts a gloved and lubricated finger in the rectum to look for abnormalities.
Find a Doctor
Discuss your options with your primary care physician. If you do not have one, please make an appointment with one of our highly trained doctors using our Find a Doctor tool.
Insurance
Prevention and screening services are typically covered by most insurance plans. Please check to confirm your specific benefits before scheduling your appointment.
Family History
If you have a family history of any type of cancer, be sure to tell your doctor or nurse. If any of your parents, siblings or children have had cancer, you may need to be screened earlier and more often. Your doctor will talk with you about your risk factors.
We’re here to help
Screening and early detection help us treat cancer at its earliest stages. If you are diagnosed with cancer, our compassionate team at Orlando Health Cancer Institute will talk through your diagnosis, answer your questions and work with you to come up with the best treatment plan.
Screening tests are not available for every type of cancer, but our Research and Clinical Trials Program investigates new methods of detection and early diagnosis, along with state-of-the-art treatment options. For more information, visit our clinical trials.
Navigate Your Health
Find a Cancer Physician
Find a Cancer Physician
Meet our doctors who specialize in the full range of cancer care. Our team of experts has experience in a variety of specialty areas. Together, we provide comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and treatment options.
Learn More
Patient Portal
Patient Portal
If you are a patient at Orlando Health Cancer Institute, our free online patient portal provides an easy and secure way to manage your health information. Reach us from any location at a time that’s convenient for you.
Learn More
Virtual Visit
Virtual Visit
Need to talk with a doctor, but don’t want to leave your home? Try our virtual visit (telehealth) option to connect with a physician from your phone, tablet or computer.
Learn More