Prostate Cancer Coalition of New Jersey-Why Prostate checkups are important

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When Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer

Prostate & Health

Why Prostate Checkups are Important

There are two main reasons for having annual prostate checkups:

The diagnosis of prostate problems. BPH or prostatitis may cause annoying or painful symptoms. A prostate checkup is the first step in determining the cause of the symptoms.
The early detection of prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer is often curable, with early detection. But, the early stages of prostate cancer may cause no symptoms and can only be detected by regular checkups.

Some Symptoms that may Indicate a Prostate Problem

•A weak urinary stream
Difficulty starting urination
Interruption of the stream (stopping and starting)
Pain or burning with urination
Urgency (difficulty postponing urination)
Frequent urination
Awakening frequently at night to urinate
Blood in urine

The American Urological Association endorses the American Cancer Society's policy that both a prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test and a digital rectal examination (DRE) should be offered annually, beginning at age 50, to men who have at least a 10 year life expectancy and to younger men who are at high risk. For men at high risk for prostate cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease or African Americans, testing may begin at a younger age (e.g. 45 years). An immediate checkup should be performed on any man who suddenly develops persistent urinary symptoms. A yearly examination may help avoid the potentially serious consequences of advanced prostate cancer.

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DISCLAIMER
This web site is produced by the Prostate Cancer Coalition of New Jersey. It is intended to be a portal for information and other resources concerning prostate cancer that may be of particular interest to men and women living in and around New Jersey. Because some of the information contained herein is gathered from various web sites and other sources over which PCCNJ has no control, PCCNJ cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information. Also, due to the timeliness of the information, some links will change and/or deactivate without notice. Moreover, the information does not necessarily represent the position of PCCNJ or of any of its members. The information you obtain at this site is general information and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. You should consult a physician for individual medical advice regarding your own situation.

Prostate Cancer Coalition of New Jersey
PO Box 12
Califon NJ 07830
Contactus@pcc-nj.org