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Stanford Health Care

Techniques

Who is at Risk and Needs Screening?

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men in the U.S. But the risks aren't equal. Black men are 50% more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and 2.5 times more likely to die from the disease than are men of Asian, Hispanic, or European descent.

Screening is an important tool for detecting prostate cancer in its early stages, when it's most treatable. Prostate cancer screening involves a simple blood test to measure prostate-specific antigen (PSA) combined with a physicial examination of the prostate.

Prostate cancer screening is recommended for most men starting at age 55. Black men and those with a family history of prostate cancer should discuss with their physician whether they should be screened earlier. Most men are screened every two years, but more frequent screening may be recommended in certain cases.

What We Offer You For Prostate Cancer Screening

  • In-depth education by your provider to make sure you understand all the important factors related to prostate cancer screening. Go to About Prostate Cancer Screening
  • Evidence-based screening for prostate cancer based on recommendations from the American Cancer Society. Go to Techniques
  • Patient-centered care that considers your needs and preferences when making important health care decisions. Go to Benefits and Risks
  • Convenient access to care at primary care and urology clinics located throughout the Bay area. Go to Our Clinics

What Is Prostate Cancer Screening?

Techniques for Prostate Cancer Screening

Your primary care provider will usually include the option of prostate screening as part of your annual exam, when you reach the appropriate age. If you are at higher risk and want screening, you should consider consulting with a urologist. 

The two types of prostate screening tests include:

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test

PSA is a protein made in the prostate gland. The PSA test is a blood test that measures the amount of PSA in the blood.

In general, PSA levels are low in men with a healthy prostate. An increase of PSA in the blood may indicate prostate cancer. Other factors can also cause elevated PSA levels, such as:

  • Age
  • Enlarged prostate
  • Race
  • Medical procedures
  • Medications
  • Prostate infection

Your doctor will help you interpret your test result and work with you to determine your next steps.

Digital rectal exam (DRE)

During the DRE, the doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for any abnormalities in the prostate. A DRE is not as effective as a PSA test.

Further testing

If a PSA test or DRE is positive, your doctor may recommend a referral to a urologist for additional diagnostic tests for prostate cancer. Stanford Urology Clinics offer the most complete testing available for prostate cancer. Our urologists work with you to determine which tests you need and will explain all your options.

Our Clinics

Urology Clinic

Stanford Urology Clinics provide general urology care for adult patients with a wide range of complex urologic problems. Our experienced urologists offer complete prostate cancer testing and expertise in sexual and reproductive health. We are committed to providing personalized, high-quality care in a comfortable, private environment.

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RELATED CLINICS

5565 W Las Positas Blvd
 Pleasanton, CA 94588
Phone: 650-723-3391
5800 Hollis Street
 Emeryville, CA 94608
Phone: 510-806-2100
Make An Appointment

To make an appointment with a urologist, call:

Urology Clinic in Palo Alto: 650-723-3391

Urology Clinic in Pleasanton: 925-278-7095

Urology Clinic in Emeryville: 510-806-2100