Checking Your Prostate

The man’s prostate is a gland the size of a walnut located between the bladder and rectum. It surrounds the urethra and functions to help produce semen. After age 40, the prostate increases in size, and most men develop enlargement of the gland. It’s important for men to get their prostate checked regularly.

Prostate Symptoms

Sometimes problems involving the prostate do not cause external symptoms. That’s why doctors recommend an annual exam after age 50.

Prostate gland enlargement can be caused by:

• Prostatitis – The most common of the medical issues associated with the gland, Prostatitis is characterized by prostate inflammation. Half of all men will develop prostatitis and need treatment in his lifetime.
• Enlarged prostate – BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia), is the most prevalent health concern among men. After age 50, most men will encounter BPH, but this does not mean cancer is the underlining reason. An embarrassing and annoying symptom is difficulty starting and completing urination.
• Prostate cancer – It begins when cells in the prostate grow uncontrollably. This condition is second only to lung cancer in cancer deaths in men.men’s

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men after skin cancer with one in seven men diagnosed. While age is the biggest risk factor for prostate cancer, ethnicity, family history and gene mutations also play a role. With early detection, prostate cancer can be successfully treated.

Prostate Exams

“All men should see their physician for a simple annual exam and evaluation, especially after the age of 50,” said Dr. Jobe Metts, Urologist at UNC Urology at Goldsboro. The exam involves a Digital Rectal Exam to determine the size of the gland. A common blood test or PSA test is another test used to detect prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Ask your physician which test is right for you.

Do you need to schedule your prostate exam? Schedule an appointment with UNC Urology at Goldsboro today by calling 919-735-1635.