Prostate cancer is a very real possibility for any man. Around 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lifetimeCommon symptoms of prostate cancer may include difficulty urinating, painful urination, loss of bladder control, blood in semen, erectile dysfunction, and more. 

However, symptoms often don’t show up immediately. That’s why men need to have their prostates regularly examined once they reach a certain age. The question is, what age is that? The truth is, it’s not the same for everyone. 

When You Should Have Your Prostate Examined 

The need for prostate exams can vary depending on age, health history, race, and other factors. The best thing to do is to speak to your doctor about when you should have your prostate examined.   

If you have a family history of prostate cancer, you will likely start screening by 40.  

If you’re African American, you will likely begin screening around 45 even if you do not have a history of prostate cancer. This is because African American men are more at risk of developing prostate cancer. 

If you have no history of prostate cancer, and you are not African American, then you’ll likely start prostate exams by 50.  

In addition to yearly prostate exam, it is recommend that you receive a colonoscopy. This is only needed once every 10 years. Once you reach a certain age, your doctor will likely recommend that you stop having your prostate examined. This is because prostate cancer is traditionally slow moving, and it likely won’t affect you during the remainder of your life. 

Cancer Isn’t the Only Thing That Can Affect Your Prostate 

While prostate examines are critical for catching cancer before it becomes a problem, other conditions can affect your prostate as well. Your prostate gland never stops growing. Eventually, this will almost certainly lead to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Prostatitis is another non-cancerous condition that can develop, typically due to a bacterial infection. 

BPH and prostatitis both share symptoms that are fairly similar to prostate cancer. It’s important that you’re properly diagnosed so that the appropriate treatment can be applied. To ensure that your prostate is checked correctly, and your condition is identified accurately, make sure you see a trustworthy urologists. 

At Urology Specialists of Ohio, our team of urologists is here to provide you with the care you need. We utilize the latest methods and equipment to offer the most effective treatments for your situation. Prostate cancer, along with other prostate conditions, is highly treatable. However, it needs to be caught early on. 

For a prostate cancer center in the Dayton, Ohio area, have your doctor contact the Urology Specialists of Ohio.