All we need to know about prostate health

In one of our latest articles here below, esteemed consultant urologist, Mr Christian Brown, shares his expert insights with regards to prostate health. 

What is prostate health?

Knowing that the prostate gland is healthy is essential as some prostate conditions such as enlargement and cancer can have no symptoms at all. 1:8 men will get a diagnosis of prostate cancer in their lifetime and an earlier diagnosis allows for more successful treatment and cure.

How is prostate health checked?

The health of the prostate is assessed by a urologist. This typically involves a conversation about urinary and sexual function and an examination of the prostate called a DRE (digital rectal examination). This examination is not painful and takes less than 30 seconds to do. A blood test called the PSA (prostate specific antigen) is also taken.

PSA is a protein-like substance that occurs in abundance in the fluid within the prostate. Testing blood samples to determine the amount of PSA is central to the early detection of prostate cancer. It’s worth emphasising that a higher-than-normal PSA level doesn’t necessarily mean you have prostate cancer. Conversely, a normal PSA value does not conclusively exclude the presence of cancer.

Both benign enlargement of the prostate (BPH) and prostatitis (inflammation) can result in elevated PSA levels in the blood, and your urologist will cross-check your PSA result with your symptoms and examination. If there are any concerns about cancer risk, a prostate MRI scan is arranged.

An MRI scan uses magnets to create a detailed picture of the prostate and pelvis. The use of a multi-parametric MRI (mpMRI) scan helps to identify if there’s any cancer inside the prostate that may require a biopsy to investigate further.

What is the best age or time to get a prostate health check?

If you are over 50, you should have a prostate health check annually. If there is a family history of prostate cancer (fathers, uncles or brothers) or if you are black then testing should start at 45 years old due to a higher risk of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer risk is also increased if you have female relatives with breast or ovarian cancer.

Are there any warning signs that you should get your prostate checked?

If there is a change in the way you pass urine such as reduced flow, going to the toilet more frequently during the day or night, not being able to empty well, or passing blood in the urine or semen, then you should have a prostate health check.

To consult with Mr Christian Brown today, head on over to his Top Doctors profile.