prostate cancer screening is controversial. some doctors and organizations recommend regular screening while others don't. the american cancer society says men should talk to their doctors about the benefits risks and limitations of prostate cancer screening before deciding whether to be tested. the group's guidelines make it clear that prostate-specific antigen (psa) blood testing should not occur unless this discussion happens. for most men at average risk screening is started at age 50. however some doctors recommend that men at higher risk of prostate cancer -- african-american men or those with a family history of prostate cancer -- start screening earlier. the american urological association recommends a first-time test at age 40 with the schedule of follow-up testing to be determined on an individual basis. if prostate cancer screening is done it involves a blood test and possibly a prostate exam by your doctor. whether or not you test is something you and your doctor must decide together.
should i be screened for prostate cancer?