Prostate cancer screening

Prostate cancer screening aims to detect cancer early when treatment is most effective. The common tests include a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, which measures a protein that may be higher in men with prostate cancer, and a digital rectal exam (DRE), where a doctor feels the prostate through the rectum for irregularities. Screening decisions should be made after discussing potential benefits and risks with a healthcare provider, considering factors like age, family history, and overall health. Early detection can improve treatment options, but screening also has potential downsides, such as false positives and unnecessary procedures.