recommended so that you are both following the process together and questions can be more easily answered in real-time.
PSA levels vary over time and slowly rise with age, so repeated tests may be necessary to accurately monitor said levels.
The other less popular choice for determining the presence of prostate cancer is the digital rectal exam, whereby a proctologist inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel for irregularities like bumps or hard areas on the prostate.
While it’s a less effective method than the PSA blood test, a few seconds of discomfort could lengthen your life if something out of the ordinary is immediately detected.
RELATED: Men: Knowing Your PSA Number May Save Your Life
Researchers at City of Hope Hospital conducted a small clinical trial to determine why Black men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer compared to their non-Black peers. The results concluded four biomarkers related to metabolism are linked to increased incidence of prostate cancer, particularly in West African men. Biomarkers are measurable substances found in organisms that indicate the presence of some form of disease or infection.
A byproduct of metabolism called methylglyoxal (MG) is carried by diabetes patients in higher concentrations and creates instability within normal functioning cells consistent with tumor growth. In short, excess sugar causes cell damage, weakening it for any cancer to mutate.
Talk to a medical professional if there is indeed a family history of prostate cancer in your family. There are baseline tests available that can help assess your risk of developing this disease to ensure a fruitful and proactive future.