Hendrick Clinic physician: Blood test important tool in detecting prostate cancer early

One of the more common cancers affecting men might also be one of the least talked about. Prostate cancer often develops slowly and may not cause symptoms until an advanced stage. When symptoms do appear, they may include changes in urinary habits, blood in the urine or semen or pain in the back, hips or pelvis.

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death among men in the United States, with an estimated 36,320 deaths expected in 2026.

But Seth Olcese, MD, a urologist with Hendrick Clinic Urology, said early detection remains one of the most effective tools in fighting the disease.

The Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test measures a protein the prostate produces. Elevated PSA levels can be a sign of prostate cancer and may lead physicians to recommend additional testing.

Screening recommendations are not one-size-fits-all. While men ages 50 to 69 generally benefit most from PSA screening, other factors such as family history and race can influence when screening should begin and how long it should continue.

"Men with certain risk factors should begin screening earlier, between ages 40 - 45," said Dr. Olcese. "That includes men with a father or brother who has had prostate cancer, African American men and those with a family history of hereditary cancers such as BRCA-related breast cancer or Lynch syndrome-related colon cancer. Conversely, healthy, active men may benefit from continued screening into their 70s."

As with most cancers, outcomes improve when prostate cancer is detected early, making screening an important tool for identifying the disease before it spreads.

Before the PSA blood test revolutionized prostate cancer screening, physicians relied primarily on the digital rectal exam to check for suspicious lumps or hard areas in the prostate. PSA testing enabled physicians to identify many cancers much earlier, often before symptoms appeared.

The prostate cancer death rate has fallen by about 50% since 1993, largely because of earlier detection and improved treatments. However, that decline has slowed in recent years as more cancers are being diagnosed at advanced stages.

"Men really shouldn't hesitate to discuss prostate cancer screening with their primary care doctor," said Dr. Olcese. "Like the new commercials say: 'Relax, it's a blood test.'"

Looking for more information? Read about common prostate cancer symptoms and warning signs.