Prostate Cancer Screening
Understand Your Risk for Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men. Screening can help detect cancer before symptoms develop, when treatment may be more effective. At Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, we help patients make informed decisions about screening based on their age, family history, and individual risk factors.
What Is Prostate Cancer Screening?
Prostate cancer screening typically begins with a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether screening is appropriate for you and when to begin based on your individual risk factors.
Schedule Your Prostate Cancer Screening
Talk to your primary care provider about whether and when prostate cancer screening is right for you.
If you do not have a primary care provider, contact Vanderbilt Urology to make an appointment by phone (615) 322-2880 or request an appointment online:
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start prostate cancer screening?
The right time to begin screening depends on your age, family history, overall health, and other risk factors. Talk with your healthcare provider about what is best for you.
Who may be at higher risk for prostate cancer?
Some individuals may have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer, including those with a family history of the disease and Black or African American men.
What is a PSA test?
A PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test is a blood test that measures levels of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels may indicate the need for additional evaluation.
Does an elevated PSA mean I have prostate cancer?
No. An elevated PSA level does not necessarily mean you have prostate cancer. Other prostate conditions can also cause PSA levels to rise. Your healthcare provider may recommend additional testing to better understand your results.
Is prostate cancer screening covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover prostate cancer screening. Coverage may vary, so check with your insurance provider or healthcare team for specific information.
Prostate Cancer Screening Guidelines
News on Prostate Cancer
Cancer
Urine test better than MRI for monitoring low-risk prostate cancer in new study
The urine test offers a noninvasive option to determine which patients truly need to undergo a biopsy and which can avoid a potentially unnecessary and invasive procedure.
Cancer
My doctor told me I have cancer. Why did I feel so relieved? It’s weird, but I have my reasons. Hear me out.
My wife summed it up: “You’re the happiest person I ever heard of who just found out he has cancer.”
Cancer
Study shows urine test for prostate cancer could be used at home
The results are important because it could enable at-home testing and increased access to testing for patients undergoing telehealth care.
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