Prostate Screenings

Early cancer detection saves lives. Call (561) 482-8111 or click here to schedule your prostate screening today.

Who should get screened?
According to the American Cancer Society, most men age 50 and older, with at least a 10 year anticipated survival,  should be screened. Men who are deemed by their physicians to have higher risk should be screened at age 40 or younger, based upon that risk.  Despite recent press reports questioning the usefulness or over-utilization of PSA testing, our newest studies demonstrate that death rates from prostate cancer have decreased 40% and metastatic cancer at diagnosis has decreased 80% since widespread PSA testing was instituted.  While screenings can detect abnormalities, a prostate biopsy is the only way to actually determine if you have cancer.

Which tests are used?
The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test is a test Dr. Dudak may administer after discussing its pros and cons. This determines levels of a protein made by cells only located within the prostate gland. The chance of having prostate cancer goes up as the PSA level rises. Many factors can affect PSA levels, however, including a benign, enlarged prostate, so interpretation by a urologist is important before proceeding to further testing.

A digital rectal exam (DRE) is a manual exam in which the doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for any abnormalities on the prostate that might suggest cancer. A transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) is another screening option Dr. Dudak may use, either by itself or in conjuction with a biopsy procedure.  If a biopsy is recommended, it is performed during a 10 minute procedure in the office after first blocking the prostate nerves with anesthesia.

Source: American Cancer Society

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dudak please call (561) 482-8111 today in Boca Raton.