If possible, ask your father or another close family member about any history of prostate cancer in your family. If you have paternal family members diagnosed with prostate cancer younger than 50 years old, your doctor may administer the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening lab test when you are around the same age as they received the diagnosis.

Unless you have a close family history or other risk factors, your doctor may not routinely check PSA levels as part of the routine labs for an annual physical.
 
The PSA is not always an accurate test to help diagnosis prostate cancer. It can be elevated due to non-cancer-related prostate conditions like prostatitis (temporary inflammation of the prostate due to an infection) or benign prostate hypertrophy (enlargement of the prostate that naturally occurs with aging).

Some older patients may still request a PSA, and we consider adding this to their routine labs to help reassure the patient.

Yes, prostate cancer is often curable, depending on the stage at diagnosis, and how soon you begin treatment. Early diagnosis can improve your treatment options and outcomes.

Survival rates vary, depending on your overall health, age and response to treatment. According to the National Cancer Institute, the five-year relative survival rate of prostate cancer (percentage of people alive five years after diagnosis) is 97.9%.

The exact cause of prostate cancer remains largely unknown. The cancer forms when normal cells in the prostate gland begin to change, mutate and grow.

There are ways you can reduce your risk of prostate cancer, including dietary and lifestyle changes, regular care from your doctor, knowing your risk factors and genetic testing.

Know Your Family History
According to the National Cancer Institute, up to 60% of prostate cancers have a genetic cause. One of the most common genetic causes is Lynch syndrome, which is also associated with increased risk of developing certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer. 

Your family history gives you a lot of information that can help you and your doctor potentially stay ahead of a cancer diagnosis.

Clinical genetic testing can help determine if you have mutated genes, such as the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, putting you at a higher risk.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk of prostate cancer. Eat a balanced diet, get regular exercise and maintain a healthy weight. Eat plenty of fiber and reduce your intake of red and processed meats. Avoid smoking and reduce your alcohol and soda intake.

Get Regular Care from Your PCP
A crucial part of cancer prevention includes getting regular care before you notice any symptoms. Work with your primary-care provider (PCP) for your annual checkups, immunizations and any recommended screenings.

Pay Attention to Your Body
You know what's normal for your body and what is not, so you can notice subtle changes first. Let your doctor know if you experience an inability to pass urine, difficulty starting or stopping urine flow, pain or burning during urination, or blood in urine or semen.

Schedule an appointment with your physician right away if you have any concerns or questions.

No, prostate cancer is not contagious. You cannot “catch” prostate cancer from someone else, nor can you pass the cancer on to someone else.