How is prostate cancer diagnosed

Released on = May 16, 2007, 7:53 am

Press Release Author = Laurence Magne

Industry = Healthcare

Press Release Summary = From the desk of Dr Magne, author of Cancer Free For Life

Press Release Body = From the desk of Dr Magne, author of Cancer Free For Life

The prostate gland is a small, hormone producing organ that encircles the upper part
of the urethra. It is only found in men, and is responsible for the creation of
certain male hormones. It is vital to proper sexual functioning and to regular
bladder control. The prostate gland is necessary in order to survive, reproduce and
just live comfortably, making conditions that affect it of the utmost importance.

Your doctor may have suspected prostate cancer after talking with you about your
health and completing a physical examination.

You may have had a DRE (digital rectal examination) and a blood test for a substance
called PSA (prostate specific antigen) to look for signs of cancer. If your PSA
result is higher than expected for your age, a more detailed analysis may help
determine if it\'s prostate cancer, or another prostate problem.

All men over the age of 50 years should discuss with their doctor the potential
benefits and risks of early detection of prostate cancer using Prostate Specific
Antigen (PSA) and digital rectal examinations (DRE) so that they can make informed
decisions about the use of these tests.

Men at higher risk because of family history or those of African ancestry should
discuss the need for testing at an earlier age.

Digital rectal examination (DRE)

A digital rectal examination (DRE) is the most common way to screen for prostate
cancer. During your annual physical check-up, your doctor places a gloved finger
into the rectum to feel the prostate gland. Most prostate cancers develop in the
peripheral zone, which is the part of the prostate that lies closest to the rectum.
This makes it easy to feel for lumps, irregularities or changes in size or
consistency.

A normal prostate feels smooth and rubbery. Abnormalities detected by DRE may
suggest a need for more tests.

Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test for prostate cancer

The Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test is a blood test to help detect prostate
cancer. It measures a substance called prostate specific antigen made by the
prostate. It is normal to find small quantities of PSA in the blood but problems
with your prostate can cause your PSA level to rise.

PSA levels vary according to age and tend to rise gradually in men as they age .
Elevated levels of PSA can be caused by several prostate problems and not
necessarily cancer. Sometimes men with prostate cancer still have normal PSA
levels. If you have an enlarged prostate that is non-cancerous , your PSA level may
also be high.

If your DRE or PSA tests suggest abnormalities in your prostate, your doctor may
suggest more tests to rule out or confirm a diagnosis of cancer.

Biopsy

Cells or tissues are removed from the body and checked under a microscope. If the
cells are cancerous, they may be studied further to see how fast they are growing.

To stop cancer from ever returning, you must completely stop cancer at its source.
Cancer is foremost a psychological disease and its appearance in your body is a sign
that at a deep level, your life is not working. Unless you approach and treat ALL
the areas of your life, cancer is likely to re-occur.

Dr Magne has been researching the origins and causes of disease and cancer for the
past 25 years. Visit www.cancer-free-for-life.com to receive a FREE report on The 10
Ways to Cure Cancer Immediately. This article is available for reprint for your
website and newsletter, provided that you maintain its copyright integrity and
include the signature.

Web Site = http://cancer-free-for-life.com

Contact Details = Dr Magne has been researching the origins and causes of disease
and cancer for the past 25 years. Visit www.cancer-free-for-life.com to receive a
FREE report on The 10 Ways to Cure Cancer Immediately. This article is available for
reprint for your website and newsletter, provided that you maintain its copyright
integrity and include the signature.

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