Screening and Diagnosis

A prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, blood test is the most common way to check for prostate cancer. A high PSA level could mean you have prostate cancer. However, it could also mean you have an enlarged or infected prostate. 

Your doctor may also recommend a digital rectal exam as part of a complete physical exam. During the exam, the doctor gently puts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to check the prostate gland.

Treatment

Treatment is most effective when prostate cancer is found early. Your options depend on the type of cancer cells, if they have spread and how far, your age and overall health, and personal preferences. You and your doctor may decide to watch your condition for a certain period of time before starting a treatment plan. Or, you may decide to treat it with surgery, radiation or a combination of both. In many cases, minimally invasive robotic surgery is a possibility.