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Prostate cancer screening: Should you get a PSA test?

Simple test, not-so-simple decision When elevated PSA isn't cancer When prostate cancer doesn't increase PSA Digital rectal examination Think about your risk factors for prostate cancer Consider the varying viewpoints: What are the recommendations? How does it add up? Content What is PSA? What increases the risk of prostate cancer? What are the pros and cons of prostate cancer screening? What's the advantage of a PSA test? What's risky about a PSA test? What do experts recommend?

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Cancer screening tests — including the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to look for signs of prostate cancer — can be a good idea. Prostate cancer screening can help identify cancer early on, when treatment is most effective.

But it isn't perfect. Some men may find that the downsides of prostate cancer screening outweigh the potential benefits.

Ultimately, whether to have prostate cancer screening is something you should decide after discussing it with your doctor, considering your risk factors and weighing your personal preferences.

Here's information to help you prepare for a conversation with your doctor.

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