Overview
The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland in the male reproductive system that produces semen and male hormones. At NURA, the health screening package includes prostate cancer screening by checking the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) — a protein produced by the prostate.
- Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men.
- In its early stages, cancer cells usually grow very slowly and remain confined to the prostate.
- The 5-year survival rate when detected early is nearly 100%.
Risk factors
- Age: Risk increases with age, especially after 50.
- Race: The disease occurs more frequently in men of African descent.
- Family history: A father, brother, or son with prostate cancer increases your risk; a family history of breast cancer also raises the risk.
- Obesity increases the risk of other conditions and makes treatment more difficult.
Stages of prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is divided into 4 stages:
Stage I: Cancer cells are confined to the prostate and the PSA level is below 10.
Stage II: Still confined to the prostate but the PSA level is between 10 and 20.
Stage III: Cancer has extended beyond the prostate and invaded surrounding tissue, possibly reaching the seminal vesicles; PSA can be at any level.
Stage IV: Cancer has spread to nearby organs, lymph nodes, and bones; PSA can be at any level.
Prostate cancer screening
The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a blood test that measures the PSA level. PSA can be higher in men with prostate cancer, but it can also rise due to other prostate conditions. Generally, the higher the PSA, the greater the likelihood of a prostate problem; however, age, race, and individual differences all affect PSA levels. Note: the PSA test is only one part of diagnosis — the doctor will combine it with other tests and medical history for an accurate diagnosis.