Prostate Exam
Prostate Cancer is a disease that occurs with malignant growth on the prostate, the walnut-sized gland in men that plays a role in sperm motility and survival through the vaginal canal.
Prostate cancer occurs slowly. The malignancy is often detected a few years after cancer has started because prostate cancer does not have any immediate symptoms that will drive the individual into having a physical prostate check-up. Once the cancer is discovered it may have already spread into neighboring tissues such as the bones, liver, and the lungs.
The specific cause of prostate cancer is not known. Factors believed to affect one's risk for developing the disease are genetics, exposure to harmful chemicals, and the frequency of ejaculation, with those who regularly ejaculate as a result of masturbation or sexual intercourse being less at risk for developing prostate cancer.
Prevention of Prostate Cancer
Early detection of cancer of the prostate is the only means of preventing deaths from the disease. A prostate exam is one of the exams done to screen for this condition. Also known as a digital rectal exam, a prostate exam is done by inserting a gloved finger into the rectum and palpating the anterior portion for any irregularities in the size, shape and texture of the prostate.
A prostate exam is recommended once men they hit their forties. A testicular cancer exam may also be done in conjunction with these tests. A urological examination may also be done with a prostate exam to determine other problems, as middle aged men often are at a higher risk for these conditions. A urological exam is often performed to rule out other causes of urological problems which may be the result of tumor growth. Early diagnosis through a prostate exam paves the way for early treatment and possible cure of the cancer.
Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
A prostate exam may reveal signs of cancer but there is no definitive diagnosis of cancer without a tissue biopsy. Preliminary diagnostic tests include digital rectal examinations, PSA tests, MRI scans, and CT scans. The PSA test is one of the best methods for the screening of prostate cancer. High levels of PSA are possible indicators for prostate cancer, although it does not serve as a definitive diagnosis for cancer. Other conditions that could result to high levels of prostate cancer include BPH (benign prostatic hypertrophy) and prostatitis or inflammation of the prostate.
