Did you know that 27,900 people were diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2024, accounting for nearly 22% of all cancer cases among men in Canada? Fortunately, there are screening tests that can detect this type of cancer in its early stages!
Learn more about prostate cancer screening methods, test reliability, and who can benefit from prostate exams.
Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in Canada, affecting around 1 in 8 men during their lifetime.
Screening tests for prostate cancer are essential, as they can detect the disease at an early stage, often before symptoms appear, thereby increasing the chances of recovery and reducing the risk of serious complications. Men aged 50 and over are encouraged to talk to their doctors about prostate screening.
Although screening tests can detect the disease earlier, they do have certain limitations. A positive test does not always indicate the presence of cancer cells. False positives are possible and may lead to unnecessary exams or treatments. That’s why you should always talk to your health care provider before undergoing a screening.
There are two types of test used to assess prostate health and identify certain abnormalities.
This screening method is a simple blood test that requires no special preparation. It measures the patient’s level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein secreted by prostate cells.
A high level of PSA in the blood may indicate the presence of cancer, which is why this test is so useful. However, high PSA levels are not always caused by cancer. They may indicate other problems, such as prostate inflammation (prostatitis) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Men with prostate cancer may also have PSA levels that fall within the normal range.
PSA levels are generally considered normal when they are below 4 ng/ml in the blood. However, this can vary with age. For those under the age of 50, this figure is below 2.5 ng/ml, whereas for those older than 70, 6.5 ng/ml is normal. A result above 4 ng/ml warrants a consultation with a urologist, but does not necessarily indicate the presence of cancer.
The digital rectal examination (DRE) is generally the first method used to detect prostate cancer. Performed by a physician, this physical examination of the prostate through the rectum is very simple and causes little discomfort. After inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum, the doctor palpates the prostate, through the rectal wall, to detect masses or other abnormalities that might suggest the presence of cancer.
Although this test isn’t perfect (not least because it doesn’t probe the whole prostate), it’s still very useful, as it can check the area where most prostate cancers develop. What’s more, it can sometimes detect cancer even when PSA levels are considered normal.
The PSA test combined with a rectal examination by a physician remains the gold standard recommended by medical authorities. This combined approach offers greater reliability in the detection of prostatic anomalies.
Other tests, such as a transrectal ultrasound or prostate biopsy, may also be necessary to establish a diagnosis.
There are a few simple things you can do to optimize the reliability of your prostate test results. Preparation varies according to the type of test, but is generally straightforward. Be sure to follow the recommendations of your health care professional, who will adapt the instructions to your personal situation.
It’s recommended to avoid ejaculation, cycling, and strenuous physical effort for 48 hours before your blood test, as these activities may temporarily increase PSA levels, which could skew the results.
No specific preparation is required. The test is quick (around 30 seconds) and can be performed during a normal visit with your doctor.
The doctor may prescribe a rectal enema and antibiotics to prevent infection (1 or 2 doses) in preparation for a biopsy or transrectal ultrasound.
Always inform your doctor of any medications or supplements you are taking, as some may influence your test results.
Prostate self-examination is not recommended. It’s best to consult a doctor as soon as symptoms of prostate cancer appear.
Prostate cancer can remain asymptomatic until it reaches an advanced stage. In fact, this disease generally causes no symptoms at the beginning of its evolution, which explains the importance of preventive screening. Symptoms usually appear when the tumour grows and begins to exert pressure on the surrounding organs, notably the urethra.
Increased prostate volume plays a major role in the onset of symptoms. When the prostate becomes too large, it compresses the urethra, leading to urinary problems.
Here are the main signs to watch out for:
These symptoms can also be caused by benign conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, but you should always seek medical attention if they persist.
Don’t wait to consult a doctor if these signs appear, even if they seem minor. Early detection can play a decisive role in the management of this disease.
It’s recommended to talk to your health care professional about prostate screening from the age of 50, as the risk of developing prostate cancer increases significantly from this age. However, screening is not a routine practice: You’ll need to talk to your doctor or pharmacist to assess the benefits and limitations of the available tests, as well as your overall health status, preferences, and medical history.
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For men with certain risk factors for prostate cancer, screening may be recommended from the age of 45. |
In addition to age, there are several other prostate cancer risk factors to be aware of.
Closer monitoring is recommended for men with several of these risk factors.
Your Brunet pharmacist can answer your questions, explain the role of screening tests, and help you better understand their benefits and limitations. Thanks to our accessible, personalized advice, you can enjoy concrete support in making informed decisions about your health!
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