Prostate cancer common, but treatable, says Hendrick Health physician

Prostate cancer is one of the more common cancers affecting men worldwide. The American Cancer Society estimates more than 300,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, and it is the second leading cause of cancer death of the nation’s men.

“While we have not identified a way to prevent prostate cancer, it is very treatable when diagnosed early,” said Trey Durdin, MD, Hendrick Clinic urologist and urologic oncology physician. “Typically, prostate cancer has ZERO symptoms, and that is why screening is so important for early detection.”

Men with average risk should begin prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, blood test screening at the age of 45. For men who are at higher risk – age, race/ethnicity, have known inherited gene mutations or strong family history of prostate cancer – screenings should begin at age 40-45, according to Dr. Durdin. Men should discuss their risk with their primary care provider.

Early detection of elevated PSA levels through routine screening allows for more treatment options and higher cure rates.

“We have state-of-the-art radiosurgery equipment and multiple robotic platforms to perform minimally-invasive surgery, along with a team with the knowledge and expertise to navigate the uncertainty of an elevated PSA,” said Dr. Durdin.

Regular prostate screenings are simple steps in supporting long-term health and peace of mind for years to come.