Guys, when was the last time you had your prostate checked? Unlike breast and testicular cancer, you can’t check it yourself!
Even if you find a site on the web that claims you can and they give you a step-by-step guide for a self-prostate exam, we’re telling all men starting at 40: pick up the phone and make an appointment with your doctor!
What happens in a prostate exam?
There’re various screening tests that are used to detect prostate cancer, but the most common is the digital rectal exam.
Although it’s used to spot an enlarged prostate, or any other abnormalities that are symptoms of prostate cancer, it can’t be used to detect the cancer itself. If the person has an enlarged prostate, they would then undergo various other tests.
The digital exam, for those who don’t know, is where:
- A doctor inserts their index finger into the patient’s rectum in order to feel the prostate gland.
- It’s a small walnut-shaped gland that sits underneath your bladder.
Don’t worry, doctors are required to wear a glove and use lubrication to ease any discomfort.
Another screening test is called:
- The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test. In this test, blood is taken and tested in a lab.
Do you have Medical Aid? Check if your policy covers this exam – if not, well, you’re just going to have to bite the bullet on this one, because this is an essential annual test for men after the age of 45.
Remember, knowing is always better than not knowing. If you’re over 40, and have never had your prostate checked, schedule an appointment with your GP, today.
