How old are you when get a prostate exam?

The age at which a man should start getting prostate exams is a matter of debate among medical professionals. Some doctors recommend that men begin annual prostate exams at age 40, while others recommend waiting until age 50 or even 55.

The decision of when to start getting prostate exams should be made in consultation with a doctor, taking into account individual risk factors such as family history of prostate cancer and race (African American men are at higher risk of developing prostate cancer).

The two main types of prostate exams are the digital rectal exam (DRE) and the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. The DRE involves the doctor inserting a lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland for any abnormalities. The PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood, which can be a sign of prostate cancer.

It is important to note that prostate exams can be uncomfortable, but they are an important part of early detection of prostate cancer. If you are concerned about prostate cancer, talk to your doctor about when you should start getting prostate exams.