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When Should I be Tested? Recommendations for Prostate Cancer Screening

From About.com

Updated: June 4, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by V.K. Gadi, MD

Question: When Should I be Tested? Recommendations for Prostate Cancer Screening

When should I be screened? Should I be screened earlier since I am at higher risk?

Answer:

At Age 50 or Earlier

You should start your annual PSA Test/digital rectal exam (DRE) regimen once you turn 50.

If you are black, you should start at age 40.

If you have blood relatives (fathers, grandfathers, brothers, sons, uncles) with prostate cancer, you should start at age 40.

Why both tests?

Both the PSA and the DRE miss prostate cancers that the other picks up. Since early detection and treatment is imperative for high cure rates, both exams are recommended.

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