John Stoddard Cancer Center
1221 Pleasant Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
p: 515-241-4141
p: 800-246-8347

Prostate Cancer

• Beginning at age 50, men should talk with their healthcare provider about beginning prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood testing and digital rectal exams (DRE) of the prostate gland. Factors to consider are overall health of the individual and life-expectancy. To be most effective, the screening should include both the PSA and DRE.
• Men who are in high-risk groups such as African Americans or men who have a history of prostate cancer in close family members (first-degree relative) should talk with their healthcare provider about beginning screenings at a younger age (45 years old).
• Both men of average risk and high risk should be provided information about what is known and what is uncertain about the benefits and limitations of early detection and treatment of prostate cancer so that they can make an informed decision about testing.