How to self-check your prostate at home: 9 safe and painless steps

The prostate gland is a small organ but plays a very important role in men's health. According to statistics, the risk of problems such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer increases significantly after age 50. However, many men often overlook early abnormal signs such as difficulty urinating, frequent nighttime urination, or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.

Due to health concerns, many men seek ways to self-check their prostate at home to detect potential problems early. While a doctor's examination remains the most accurate and reliable method, understanding how to check the prostate and recognize warning signs can help you actively monitor your health.

In this article, you will learn how to self-check your prostate, what signs to look for, the limitations of self-examination, and when to see a doctor for accurate screening and diagnosis.

How to self-check your prostate at home

Preparation before self-checking your prostate

Self-checking your prostate at home is for reference only and cannot replace specialized medical examinations. Before performing, ensure your hands are clean, use sterile medical gloves, and a lubricant to reduce discomfort.

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
• Wear clean rubber or medical gloves.
• Prepare a water-based lubricant to aid the examination process.

Choose a suitable position

The correct position will make the examination easier to perform and reduce the feeling of anal muscle tension.

• Lie on your side.
• Bring both knees towards your chest.
• Keep your body relaxed and breathe steadily before starting.

Prostate examination with a finger

This technique is similar to the digital rectal examination (DRE) that doctors often use to initially assess prostate health.

• Apply lubricant to your index finger.
• Gently insert your finger into the rectum.
• Direct your finger towards your lower abdomen or navel to locate the prostate gland.
• Gently feel the size and surface of the prostate.

Recognizing abnormal signs

During the examination, pay attention to changes that may be related to prostate conditions.

• Pain or unusual sensitivity to touch.
• Presence of hard lumps or nodules.
• Rough, uneven surface.
• Signs of swelling or abnormal enlargement of the prostate.

These signs may be related to prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or other health issues that require further evaluation.

When should you see a doctor?

If you detect any abnormal signs or are experiencing symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, nighttime urination, pelvic pain, or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, you should visit a medical facility for examination.

• Undergo a specialized prostate examination.
• Have a PSA test as indicated.
• Undergo ultrasound or other necessary diagnostic methods.

Note that self-checking the prostate cannot accurately diagnose a condition. Only a specialist doctor can make a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.

Part 1: How to self-examine your prostate at home from A-Z

Step 1: A doctor should check your prostate

Prioritize a doctor's examination for accuracy and safety

Although many people search for ways to self-check their prostate at home, experts still recommend undergoing examinations at a medical facility. Prostate examination not only requires correct technique but also experience to accurately identify abnormal signs.

• Doctors are professionally trained to assess prostate conditions.
• Examination results are more reliable than self-checks.
• Helps detect early diseases such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, or prostate cancer.

Self-examination may pose risks

Incorrect self-examination can cause damage to the rectal area or surrounding tissues.

• Fingernails or improper technique can cause bleeding.
• Some cysts or potential lesions may be irritated, leading to inflammation.
• Risk of complications requiring hospital visit for treatment and monitoring.

Difficulty in accurately self-assessing results

Even if an abnormal sign is felt, most people find it difficult to determine if it is a serious problem or not.

• Difficulty distinguishing between normal structures and disease signs.
• Can cause unnecessary anxiety or, conversely, miss important signs.
• Cannot replace specialized diagnostic methods such as PSA tests, ultrasounds, or biopsies when necessary.

Doctors will often re-examine to confirm

If you discover something abnormal after self-checking your prostate, a doctor will still need to perform another examination to accurately assess your health condition.

• Confirm results through professional examination methods.
• Combine with necessary tests to make a diagnosis.
• Provide appropriate treatment or monitoring guidance for each case.

Therefore, instead of relying entirely on home prostate checks, men should consider this as an initial health monitoring method and proactively seek medical attention when abnormal symptoms appear or if they belong to a high-risk group.

Step 2: Correct posture when checking the prostate

Lie on your left side for easier access

If performing a home examination, lying on your side often makes it easier to access the rectal area. This is also the position commonly used during prostate examinations at medical facilities.

• Remove lower body clothing for easier manipulation.
• Lie on your left side on a flat, comfortable surface.
• Bring both knees close to your chest.
• Relax your body and maintain steady breathing throughout the examination.

You can choose a standing position if it feels more comfortable

Some people feel uncomfortable lying on their side. In that case, a standing position can also aid the examination.

• Stand firmly on a stable surface.
• Lean slightly forward.
• Slightly bend at the hips to create a more favorable access angle.

No special preparation needed before examination

Many people worry about needing to clean their bowels or have a bowel movement before performing a home prostate check. In reality, this is usually not required.

• No need to try to have a bowel movement before the examination.
• No need to refrain from bowel movements to perform the examination.
• Just maintain personal hygiene and ensure hands or instruments used are properly cleaned.

Choosing the right position will help make the self-prostate examination process smoother. However, if symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent nighttime urination, pelvic pain appear, or if abnormal signs are detected, you should visit a medical facility for a prostate examination and accurate health assessment.

Step 3: Check the anal area before examination

Observe external abnormal signs

Before performing any form of prostate examination, take time to observe the area around the anus for issues that could cause pain or increase the risk of injury.

• Use a handheld mirror to observe yourself or ask for assistance if needed.
• Check for signs of swelling, irritation, or skin lesions.
• Pay attention to any unusual manifestations around the anus.

Identify conditions that may affect the examination

Some conditions or injuries in the anal area can make the examination process more uncomfortable and less safe.

• Hemorrhoids or signs of hemorrhoidal disease.
• Anal fissures causing pain or bleeding.
• Warts or small skin tumors.
• Skin tags around the anus.
• Abnormal discharge or signs of infection.

Be careful to avoid injury

If this area is already injured or inflamed, self-examination could worsen the condition.

• Risk of causing bleeding or irritating the injured area.
• Increased risk of infection if not performed correctly.
• Causes pain or discomfort during the examination.

You should stop self-examination if abnormalities are found

If you notice any of the above signs, you should consider stopping self-checking your prostate at home and arrange a doctor's visit.

• A doctor can accurately assess the cause of the abnormality.
• Reduce the risk of damaging sensitive tissues.
• Receive guidance on more appropriate and safe prostate examination methods.

Checking the anal area before examination helps limit risks and ensures a smoother prostate health assessment process.

Step 4: Wear gloves correctly before checking

Use sterile medical gloves

To reduce the risk of infection and protect sensitive skin, single-use medical gloves should be worn before performing any examination procedure.

• Choose clean, intact, and unused gloves.
• Ensure gloves fit well for easy manipulation.
• Change to new gloves if torn or damaged.

Wash hands thoroughly before putting on gloves

Many people think wearing gloves is enough, but pre-washing hands is still very important to limit bacteria from adhering to the glove surface during use.

• Wash hands with soap and clean water.
• Thoroughly scrub palms, between fingers, and fingertips.
• Dry hands completely before putting on gloves.

Trim fingernails before performing

Long or sharp fingernails can increase the risk of injury during the examination.

• Trim and smooth the edges of your fingernails.
• Remove any chipped or sharp nail parts.
• Avoid having overly long fingernails when performing procedures near the anus and rectum.

Reduce the risk of scratches and tissue damage

Even with gloves, long fingernails can still press against the glove layer and cause damage to the soft tissues inside.

• Avoid strong or sudden movements.
• Keep movements gentle and careful.
• Stop the examination if severe pain or abnormal bleeding occurs.

Proper hand hygiene, trimming nails, and correct glove use are basic steps to make home prostate self-examination safer. However, if there are abnormal signs or if an accurate health assessment is needed, you should undergo a prostate examination at a specialized medical facility.

Step 5: Lubricate correctly to reduce discomfort

Use appropriate lubricant

If performing examination procedures involving the anal or rectal area, using lubricant can help reduce friction and limit discomfort.

• Choose a safe lubricant suitable for medical purposes.
• Ensure the product is within its expiration date and stored correctly.
• Use an adequate amount to facilitate gentle manipulation.

Helps reduce friction and irritation

The anal and rectal area is sensitive, so reducing friction can help limit soft tissue damage.

• Reduce feelings of fullness or discomfort.
• Limit the risk of scratching the skin and mucous membranes.
• Facilitate the examination process when necessary.

Prioritize safety during the examination

Even with lubricant, self-assessment of the prostate condition still has many limitations in accuracy and potential risks if performed incorrectly.

• Do not attempt to proceed if you feel pain or discomfort.
• Stop immediately if bleeding or abnormal symptoms appear.
• Consult a doctor if there are suspicious signs related to prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or other conditions.

Using appropriate lubricant can make the examination process more comfortable, but it cannot replace a prostate examination and professional assessment by medical personnel.

Step 6: Check for abnormal signs and when to seek medical attention

Note abnormal changes in the rectal area

During health monitoring, some individuals may notice abnormal signs in the anal or rectal area. However, home self-assessment is often inaccurate and cannot replace a specialized examination.

• Pay attention if lumps, nodules, or unusual swelling appear.
• Monitor for persistent pain, bleeding, or discomfort.
• Note any new changes to discuss with a doctor when needed.

Understand the limitations of self-examination

Many internal structures of the rectum can make it difficult for non-professionals to distinguish between normal and pathological signs.

• Not all lumps are cancer or serious conditions.
• Some abnormalities can only be identified through specialized examination and testing.
• Self-diagnosis can cause unnecessary anxiety or, conversely, overlook important health issues.

Do not continue if severe pain occurs

Mild discomfort may occur during a rectal examination, but distinct pain is a sign that needs attention.

• Stop immediately if severe pain occurs.
• Do not try to continue if there is a feeling of bleeding or injury.
• Contact a medical facility if symptoms persist or worsen.

Seek specialized examination for accurate results

If you suspect issues related to the prostate, rectum, or urinary health, seeing a doctor is the safest and most reliable option.

• A doctor can perform a prostate examination with correct technique.
• Combine with PSA tests, ultrasounds, or other diagnostic methods when necessary.
• Helps early detection of prostate enlargement, prostatitis, or related conditions.

Monitoring for unusual signs can help you be more proactive in your health care, but an accurate diagnosis still requires evaluation by a qualified medical professional.

Step 7: Recognize the characteristics of the prostate gland

Understand the location of the prostate gland

The prostate gland is located in front of the rectum and is an important part of the male reproductive system. During the examination, the doctor will assess the shape, size, and consistency of the prostate gland to detect any abnormalities.

• A normal prostate gland is about the size of a walnut.
• The surface is usually relatively smooth and elastic.
• In the middle, there is a shallow groove dividing the gland into left and right lobes.

Abnormal signs to note

Some changes in the structure of the prostate gland may be related to medical conditions that require further investigation.

• Presence of abnormally hard or firm areas.
• Irregular or lumpy surface.
• Prostate gland is larger than normal.
• Pain or tenderness during examination.
• Significant asymmetry in the size of the two lobes of the prostate gland.

What conditions might these signs be related to?

Abnormalities found during examination do not automatically mean cancer, but they are a reason to perform more in-depth tests.

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can cause the prostate gland to enlarge with age.
• Prostatitis can cause pain, swelling, or increased sensitivity.
• Hard areas or abnormal lumps can sometimes be associated with prostate cancer or other conditions.

Do not self-diagnose your condition

Even if abnormal signs are noticed, determining the cause requires professional evaluation and supporting tests.

• Clinical examination is only an initial screening step.
• The doctor may order a PSA test, ultrasound, or other diagnostic methods.
• An accurate diagnosis requires combining multiple factors rather than relying solely on the findings of an examination.

If you experience symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, nocturia, weak urine stream, or pelvic pain, you should proactively have your prostate examined for timely evaluation and advice.

Step 8: Safely complete the examination process

Perform gently and do not prolong unnecessarily

If you are performing an examination under the guidance of medical personnel, the examination procedures usually take a short time. Unnecessary prolongation can increase discomfort and irritate the rectal area.

• Perform maneuvers slowly and carefully.
• Do not try to examine for too long once initial observation or assessment is complete.
• Stop immediately if pain, bleeding, or unusual sensations occur.

Maintain hygiene after examination

Proper hygiene helps reduce the risk of infection and protects health.

• Remove disposable gloves correctly.
• Dispose of gloves in an appropriate trash receptacle after use.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water for at least 20 seconds.
• Dry hands with a clean towel or disposable paper.

Monitor for signs after examination

After completion, pay attention to any unusual changes in your body over the next few hours or days.

• Persistent pain in the anal or rectal area.
• Abnormal bleeding.
• Difficulty urinating, painful urination, or pelvic pain.
• Discomfort that does not subside.

Seek medical attention if abnormalities occur

Self-monitoring health is for reference only. If you detect suspicious signs or are experiencing symptoms related to the prostate gland, you should go to a medical facility for an accurate evaluation.

• Have a prostate examination performed by a specialist doctor.
• Consider PSA testing or ultrasound when indicated.
• Early detection of problems such as prostate enlargement, prostatitis, or other conditions.

Early diagnosis and timely examination often lead to more effective treatment and reduce the risk of complications later on.

Step 9: See a doctor for an accurate evaluation

Proactively seek medical attention after self-examination

Regardless of whether the self-monitoring results seem normal or abnormal signs appear, seeing a doctor is still an important step to accurately assess the health of the prostate gland.

• Schedule an appointment if you have persistent symptoms.
• Discuss what you observed or felt with your doctor.
• Undergo necessary tests as prescribed by a specialist.

See a doctor immediately if abnormal signs are detected

Some symptoms require early examination to determine the cause and appropriate course of action.

• Detection of a hard lump or abnormal area.
• Difficulty urinating, weak urine stream, or incomplete emptying.
• Frequent urination, especially at night.
• Pelvic pain, perineal pain, or persistent discomfort.
• Blood in urine or semen.

Inform your doctor if you have self-examined previously

If you have performed a self-examination recently, be proactive in providing this information during your visit.

• Let the doctor know when the self-examination was performed.
• Describe any abnormal signs detected, if any.
• Provide information about the symptoms you are experiencing.

Notes on PSA testing

Some manipulations of the prostate before testing can affect the evaluation results.

• Please inform your doctor if you have had an examination or manipulation of the prostate in the past few days.
• This helps the doctor interpret the PSA test results more accurately.
• In some cases, the doctor may consider an appropriate time to perform the test.

Combine multiple methods for diagnosis

No single sign is sufficient to diagnose a prostate condition. Diagnosis is often based on various factors.

• Eliciting symptoms and medical history.
• Digital rectal exam (DRE) of the prostate.
• PSA test.
• Ultrasound or other imaging diagnostics when needed.

Regular prostate examinations and early checks for abnormal symptoms are effective ways to detect prostate enlargement, prostatitis, or prostate cancer early, thereby improving treatment effectiveness and protecting men's long-term health.

Part 2: When should you see a doctor for your prostate immediately?

Note 1: When should prostate screening be performed?

Men aged 50 and over should have regular prostate checks

The risk of prostate conditions, especially prostate cancer, tends to increase with age. Therefore, men aged 50 and over should proactively discuss with their doctor about regular prostate screening to detect abnormalities early.

• Undergo regular health check-ups as recommended by your doctor.
• Monitor for urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating, nocturia, or frequent urination.
• Combine clinical examination with necessary tests when indicated.

Those with a family history of prostate cancer need earlier screening

Genetic factors can increase the risk of the disease. If you have a family member who has had prostate cancer, you should proactively discuss with your doctor about when to start screening.

• From age 40 if two or more first-degree relatives (father, brother, or son) were diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65.
• From age 45 if one first-degree relative was diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65.

Do not wait until symptoms appear before getting examined

In the early stages, many prostate conditions can progress silently without causing clear signs.

• Some cases do not show symptoms for many years.
• Early detection often leads to more effective treatment.
• Regular screening helps reduce the risk of missing the disease in its early stages.

Common screening methods used

Your doctor may suggest one or more assessment methods depending on your age, family history, and individual health status.

• Eliciting symptoms and medical history.
• Prostate examination.
• PSA test to assess the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood.
• Ultrasound or additional tests if necessary.

Discuss with your doctor to develop a suitable screening plan

Not everyone has the same level of disease risk. The timing and frequency of prostate checks should be based on your doctor's individual assessment.

• Consider age and current health status.
• Review family history related to prostate cancer.
• Evaluate other risk factors to develop an appropriate monitoring plan.

Proactive prostate cancer screening and regular prostate examinations are effective ways to help detect the disease early, increase the chances of successful treatment, and protect men's long-term health.

Note 2: Warning symptoms that require a prostate check

See a doctor early if abnormal urinary symptoms appear

Many conditions related to the prostate gland can directly affect urination and male sexual function. If you notice unusual signs, you should proactively have your prostate examined to determine the cause and receive timely treatment.

• Do not be complacent or self-treat when symptoms persist.
• Early examination helps detect issues such as prostate enlargement, prostatitis, or more serious conditions.
• Early diagnosis often leads to better treatment outcomes.

Weak or slow urine stream

The prostate gland is located near the urethra. When the prostate gland is enlarged or has problems, the urine flow can be obstructed.

• Urine flows weaker than usual.
• Takes a long time to finish urinating.
• Intermittent or non-continuous urine stream.

Difficulty urinating or needing to strain during urination

This is one of the common symptoms in people with prostate conditions.

• Difficulty initiating urination.
• Needing to push to expel urine.
• Feeling like the bladder has not been completely emptied.

Frequent nighttime urination (nocturia)

If you frequently wake up multiple times at night to urinate, this could be a sign that needs attention.

• Sleep is constantly interrupted.
• Affects quality of life and overall health.
• May be related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Painful or burning sensation during urination

A painful or burning sensation during urination can occur when the prostate or urinary tract is inflamed.

• Persistent or recurrent painful urination.
• Discomfort during urination.
• May be accompanied by fever or pelvic pain in some cases.

Blood in urine

This is a sign that should not be ignored and requires medical attention as soon as possible.

• Urine is abnormally red, pink, or brown.
• May be related to the prostate, bladder, or urinary tract.
• Requires a doctor's evaluation to determine the specific cause.

Erectile dysfunction

Some prostate conditions can affect male sexual function.

• Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
• Decreased quality of sexual life.
• May appear with other urinary symptoms.

Pain during ejaculation

Pain or discomfort during ejaculation can be a sign of inflammation or disorder of the prostate gland.

• Pain during or after ejaculation.
• Discomfort in the perineal or pelvic area.
• Symptoms can last for several days if not treated.

Low back pain or pelvic pain

Some people with prostate conditions may experience persistent dull pain.

• Lower back pain.
• Pelvic or perineal pain.
• Persistent heavy or uncomfortable sensation.

If one or more of the above symptoms appear, especially blood in urine, difficulty urinating, frequent nighttime urination, or pain during ejaculation, you should go to a medical facility soon to have your prostate checked, undergo a PSA test, and perform necessary evaluations to detect related conditions early.

Note 3: See a doctor early if abnormal signs appear

Do not delay seeing a doctor when urinary symptoms appear

Symptoms such as difficulty urinating, painful urination, frequent urination, or blood in the urine can be related to many different conditions, not just prostate issues. Therefore, early examination helps identify the correct cause and avoids missing the effective treatment window.

• Proactively seek medical attention when symptoms persist or worsen.
• Do not self-diagnose based solely on symptoms.
• Undergo all tests as prescribed by your doctor.

Prostate examination is only one part of the diagnostic process

A digital rectal exam (DRE) of the prostate can help the doctor detect some initial abnormal signs, but this method alone is not sufficient to accurately diagnose all conditions.

• Only provides preliminary assessment of prostate size and structure.
• Cannot accurately determine the cause of symptoms.
• Often combined with other examination methods.

Prostate ultrasound may be needed

In some cases, the doctor may order an ultrasound to evaluate the prostate gland and surrounding tissues in more detail.

• Helps visualize the internal structure of the prostate gland.
• Assists in detecting abnormal tissue areas.
• Provides additional information for diagnosis.

Biopsy may be indicated when necessary

If examination or test results show suspicious signs, the doctor may recommend a prostate biopsy to accurately determine the condition.

• Takes a small tissue sample from the prostate for analysis.
• Helps confirm or rule out prostate cancer.
• An important step in advanced diagnostic procedures.

Combining multiple methods for accurate assessment

Diagnosing prostate conditions often does not rely on a single test but requires a comprehensive review of multiple factors.

• Eliciting symptoms and medical history.
• Clinical prostate examination.
• PSA test.
• Prostate ultrasound.
• Biopsy when indicated.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent nighttime urination, blood in urine, pelvic pain, or erectile dysfunction, take the initiative to get your prostate checked as soon as possible for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

Note 4: PSA test for prostate examination

What is PSA?

PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate gland. During health check-ups or when evaluating prostate-related symptoms, doctors may order a PSA test through a blood sample to help detect abnormalities.

• This is one of the common tests for prostate cancer screening.
• Helps assess the risk of prostate conditions.
• Often performed in conjunction with clinical examination and other tests.

What is a normal PSA level?

PSA results can vary depending on age and individual health status. Generally, a PSA level below 4 ng/mL is often considered within the reference range in many cases.

• Low PSA does not definitively rule out disease.
• High PSA does not confirm prostate cancer.
• The doctor will evaluate the results based on many related factors.

PSA is not an absolute diagnostic test

Despite its usefulness in screening, the PSA test still has certain limitations.

• False positive results may occur, meaning PSA is elevated but there is no cancer.
• False negative results may occur, meaning PSA is normal but the disease is still present.
• Therefore, PSA alone should not be used to draw conclusions.

Factors that can temporarily increase PSA

Certain activities or health conditions can cause PSA levels to rise without being related to cancer.

• Ejaculation shortly before the test.
• Prostatitis or urinary tract infection.
• Digital rectal examination of the prostate.
• Long-distance cycling or activities that put pressure on the perineal area.

In these cases, the doctor may recommend retesting after an appropriate period to obtain more accurate results.

When are further checks needed?

If PSA is persistently elevated or accompanied by unusual symptoms, the doctor may order further specialized evaluations.

• Direct prostate examination.
• Prostate ultrasound.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) when necessary.
• Prostate biopsy to determine the nature of the suspicious lesion.

Frequency of PSA testing

The frequency of PSA monitoring depends on the initial PSA level, age, and individual risk factors.

• Individuals with low PSA and no high-risk factors can be monitored according to the doctor's schedule.
• Individuals with higher PSA or a family history of prostate cancer often require more frequent checks.
• The doctor will develop an appropriate monitoring plan based on each specific case.

Combining PSA with other screening methods

To accurately assess prostate health, PSA should be considered part of a comprehensive screening process.

• Regular prostate examination.
• Assessment of urinary symptoms.
• Review of family history.
• Performing tests and imaging diagnostics when needed.

Proactively undergoing PSA testing, prostate examination, and prostate cancer screening as recommended by a doctor can help detect abnormalities early, thereby improving treatment effectiveness and long-term men's health protection.

Normal results do not completely rule out cancer

Do not be complacent when PSA and examination results are normal

Many people believe that normal PSA test results or no abnormalities found during a prostate examination mean there is no risk of disease. In fact, some cases of prostate cancer can still exist even if initial screening results do not show clear signs.

• Normal PSA does not guarantee complete exclusion of cancer.
• Digital rectal examination of the prostate may miss small lesions or those located in difficult-to-detect areas.
• A combination of assessment methods is needed to draw more accurate conclusions.

Provide complete information to your doctor

To correctly assess disease risk, doctors do not only rely on test results but also consider many other individual factors.

• The patient's current age.
• Family history of prostate cancer.
• Current urinary symptoms.
• History of prostate-related or urinary system diseases.

Family history is an important factor

The risk of prostate cancer may be higher in individuals with relatives who have had the disease.

• Father, brothers, or sons who have had prostate cancer.
• Several family members with the disease at a relatively young age.
• Family history can affect the timing of screening initiation.

Monitor symptoms even if test results are normal

If unusual signs appear, you should still revisit the doctor as advised.

• Difficulty urinating or a weak urine stream.
• Frequent nighttime urination.
• Painful urination or blood in the urine.
• Pelvic pain, lower back pain, or perineal pain.
• Erectile dysfunction or pain during ejaculation.

Comprehensive assessment helps detect disease earlier

The diagnosis of prostate conditions is often based on a combination of factors rather than a single test.

• Eliciting clinical symptoms.
• Assessing family history.
• Prostate examination.
• PSA test.
• Ultrasound, MRI, or biopsy when necessary.

Proactively sharing complete information about prostate symptoms, family history, and current health status will help the doctor develop an appropriate prostate cancer screening plan, thereby increasing the chances of early detection and effective treatment.

References

1. American Cancer Society. (2024). Prostate Cancer Early Detection. American Cancer Society.
2. Carter, H. B., Albertsen, P. C., Barry, M. J., Etzioni, R., Freedland, S. J., Greene, K. L., Holmberg, L., Kantoff, P., Konety, B. R., Murad, M. H., Penson, D. F., & Zietman, A. L. (2013). Early Detection of Prostate Cancer: AUA Guideline. The Journal of Urology, 190(2), 419–426.
3. European Association of Urology. (2025). EAU Guidelines on Prostate Cancer. Arnhem: European Association of Urology.
4. Hayes, J. H., & Barry, M. J. (2014). Screening for Prostate Cancer with the Prostate-Specific Antigen Test: A Review of Current Evidence. JAMA, 311(11), 1143–1149.
5. Litwin, M. S., & Tan, H. J. (2017). The Diagnosis and Treatment of Prostate Cancer: A Review. JAMA, 317(24), 2532–2542.
6. Mottet, N., Bellmunt, J., Briers, E., Bolla, M., Bourke, L., Cornford, P., De Santis, M., Henry, A. M., Joniau, S., Lam, T. B., Mason, M. D., van der Poel, H., & van den Bergh, R. (2020). EAU-ESTRO-ESUR-SIOG Guidelines on Prostate Cancer. European Urology, 79(2), 243–262.
7. National Cancer Institute. (2024). Prostate Cancer Screening (PDQ®)–Health Professional Version. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute.
8. National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2025). NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Prostate Cancer Early Detection. Plymouth Meeting, PA: NCCN.
9. Nguyen-Nielsen, M., & Borre, M. (2016). Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies for Prostate Cancer. Seminars in Nuclear Medicine, 46(6), 484–490.
10. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2018). Screening for Prostate Cancer: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement. JAMA, 319(18), 1901–1913.
11. Wei, J. T., Calhoun, E., & Jacobsen, S. J. (2008). Urologic Diseases in America Project: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. The Journal of Urology, 179(5 Suppl), S75–S80.
12. Wilt, T. J., Ahmed, H. U., & Jones, K. M. (2023). Prostate Cancer Screening and Management: Evidence Update and Clinical Implications. BMJ, 382, e075174.
    

Content edited by: Sidney Bailey Hoang.

Information consulted and verified by expert: James Mitchell.