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![]() ![]() Control and Prevention Division of Cancer Prevention and Control 4770 Buford Hwy, NE MS K-64 Atlanta, GA 30341-3717 Call: 1 (800) CDC-INFO TTY: 1 (888) 232-6348 FAX: (770) 488-4760 E-mail: cdcinfo@cdc.gov Submit a Question Online |
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ScreeningProstate cancer screening means looking for cancer before it causes symptoms. This helps to find cancer at an early stage when it may be easier to treat. Tests that are commonly used to screen for prostate cancer are:
As a rule, the higher the PSA level in the blood, the more likely a prostate problem is present. But many factors, such as age and race, can affect PSA levels. Some prostate glands produce more PSA than others. PSA levels can also be affected by
Because many factors can affect PSA levels, your doctor is the best person to interpret your PSA test results. Should I get screened for prostate cancer?Not all medical experts agree that screening for prostate cancer will save lives. Currently, there is not enough evidence to decide if the potential benefits of prostate cancer screening outweigh the potential risks. Potential benefits of prostate cancer screening include:
Potential risks of prostate cancer screening include:
CDC and other federal agencies follow the prostate cancer screening guidelines set forth by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, which state that there is insufficient evidence to recommend for or against routine screening for prostate cancer using PSA or DRE. Informed Decision MakingGiven the uncertainty about the benefit of screening, CDC supports informed decision making. Informed decision making occurs when a man:
CDC has developed materials about prostate cancer screening which are designed to promote discussions between men and physicians and to help men make informed decisions about prostate cancer screening. These materials include: Prostate Cancer Screening: A Decision Guide![]() Prostate Cancer Screening: A Decision Guide for African Americans La Detección del Cáncer de Próstata: Una Guía para Hispanos en los Estados Unidos (PDF-512KB)
Page last reviewed: March 2, 2009
Page last updated: March 2, 2009 Content source: Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion |
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