About one in eight men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Because prostate cancer may not cause symptoms early on, screening can play an important role in finding it sooner. 

So, when should you start screening? Your age and personal risk can help determine the answer.

When should you start prostate cancer screening?

When to start depends on your personal risk. The American Cancer Society recommends talking with your doctor about prostate cancer screening starting at:

• Age 50 if you’re at average risk
• Age 45 if you’re at higher risk, including Black men and men with a father or brother who was diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65
• Age 40 if you’re at even higher risk because more than one close family member developed prostate cancer at an early age

Your doctor can help you understand your personal risk and decide whether screening is right for you.

What does prostate cancer screening involve?

Prostate cancer screening usually starts with a simple blood test.

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: This blood test measures PSA, a protein produced by the prostate. A higher-than-normal PSA level doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer. Other conditions, including an enlarged or inflamed prostate, can also raise PSA levels.

Digital rectal exam (DRE): Your doctor may also perform a DRE to check your prostate for anything that feels abnormal.

Prostate cancer may not cause symptoms early

Prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. That’s why it’s important to talk with your doctor about screening rather than waiting until something feels wrong.

If you do have symptoms, they may include:

• Blood in the urine or semen
• Trouble urinating
• Needing to urinate more often, especially at night
• Erectile dysfunction
• Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis when cancer is more advanced

Having these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have prostate cancer. But if you notice any of them, talk with your doctor.

Cancer Care for Carrum Health members

If you’re diagnosed with prostate cancer, getting high-quality care from an experienced cancer team matters.

If you or an eligible family member has received a cancer diagnosis—or test results indicate the possibility of cancer—Carrum Health can connect eligible members with a leading cancer center and guide you through your next steps.

For eligible members, prostate cancer treatment through Carrum Health is typically fully covered, so you won’t receive a bill for eligible care.

To see if the Carrum Health cancer care benefit is available to you, check your eligibility.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. No material is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.