The Importance of Prostate Cancer Screening

By Dr. David Samadi

Did you know that prostate cancer affects approximately 1 in 8 men in their lifetime? If you know eight men over the age of 50, chances are one of them could develop this disease. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 313,780 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in 2025, with approximately 35,770 men losing their lives to it. That means every two minutes, a man in the U.S. is diagnosed with prostate cancer, and every 15 minutes, one loses his battle against it. While medical professionals most commonly diagnosis prostate cancer in men aged 65 and older, it also affects men between the ages of 45 and 64, making up 37% of cases. African American men and those of Caribbean descent face an even higher risk. However, the good news is that nearly 95% of prostate cancers can be treated successfully when detected early through routine screening.

The Power of Early Detection

There are currently more than 3.1 million men in the U.S. who have survived prostate cancer, thanks to early detection and advancements in treatment. The key to improving survival rates is simple: routine screenings.

When Should You Get Screened?

Men at average risk: Begin screenings at age 50.
Men at higher risk (African American men or those with a family history of prostate cancer): Start screening at age 40.

A prostate cancer screening is as important as a cholesterol test or mammogram. It’s a preventive measure that could save your life.

Understanding the Screening Process

Screening typically includes:

Medical History & Physical Exam – Your doctor will assess your risk factors and overall health.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) – A quick, painless exam where the doctor checks for abnormalities in the prostate.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test – A blood test measuring a protein called PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) produced by the prostate. Elevated levels can indicate potential cancer.

It’s important to track PSA levels over time. A sudden rise may indicate prostate cancer, making follow-up with a urologist essential.

What If You’re Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer?

First and foremost—don’t panic. You’re not alone. Prostate cancer treatment options continue to improve, and early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

Take Charge of Your Health

When found at an early stage, prostate cancer is highly treatable. And that is key – don’t wait for symptoms to appear—schedule a screening today. Talk to your doctor about your risks and the best time to start testing. Your health is in your hands. Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two book, Prostate Cancer, Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery, and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.