PULSE Fall 2023 3 A necessary talk with your primary care provider When deciding whether to get tested for prostate cancer, it’s important to look at the latest research and expert recommendations. Men should have a thoughtful discussion with their primary care provider (PCP) about the pros and cons of prostate cancer screening. What is a PSA test? Cells in the prostate gland make a protein called prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Both healthy and cancer cells make PSA. The protein is found mostly in semen, but it’s also in blood. PSA tests look for prostate cancer. They are used mainly to screen men without symptoms but also for men who have possible cancer symptoms. The chance of having prostate cancer increases with a higher PSA level, but there is no magic number that determines whether you have cancer. Pros of screening Early prostate cancers typically don’t cause symptoms, so most are found as a result of screening. Early-stage cancers are likely to be easier to treat. Cons of screening The PSA test can provide inaccurate or unclear results. For example, most men who do not have prostate cancer have a PSA level under 4 nanograms per milliliter (ng/ml) of blood, but a level under 4 is not a guarantee that you don’t have cancer. It’s your decision Men who opt to test for prostate cancer should do so at age 50 if they are at normal risk. If you are African American or have a father or brother who had prostate cancer at an early age, start screening at age 45. If you’re at higher risk, with more than one first-degree relative who’s had prostate cancer, start testing at age 40. Talk with your PCP to decide if screening for prostate cancer is best for you. Don’t have a PCP? At Central Peninsula Hospital, we believe access to care is central to our mission, and we are proud to offer better access to primary care. Our practices accept all payer sources—from Medicare to private insurance without exclusions or restrictions—and we have family practices in both Kenai and Soldotna. PULSE is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of Central Peninsula Hospital, 250 Hospital Place, Soldotna, AK 99669, phone 907-714-4404, website cpgh.org. CEO: Shaun Keef External Affairs Director: Bruce Richards Information in PULSE comes from a wide range of medical experts. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. If you wish to be removed from the mailing list, please call 907-714-4600 or email marketing@cpgh.org. 2023 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Central Peninsula Hospital and its clinics (collectively “CPH”) comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Translation and other services are available to you, free of charge, by calling this number: 907-714-4404. The pros and cons of prostate cancer screening Make an appointment Call 907-714-4111 to get started on your health care journey today.
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