text: Once per year digital rectal exams and PSA tests are the most effective preliminary means to detect prostate cancer. \n\nIf you the doctor feels something during the DRE then further tests may follow. If you PSA is high, usually above 3.6, then further testing is warranted. If your PSA is below 3.6, but has risen by .75 per year, then additional tests may follow.\n\nIf one of the above conditions arises then you may be asked to see a urlogist who will want to do a biopsy. Ask for an fPSA (free PSA) test first. If you 'free' PSA level is below 20% by all means have the biopsy. If the free PSA is above 20%, and the doctor did not feel an irregularity, you might consider waiting and watching for 6 months to a year. \n\nOtherwise a biopsy where the doctor takes at least 10 samples should be done. Since this is invasive, but not painful, the biopsy should be the last resort to finish your testing for cancer.\n\nIf the lab determines you have a cancer, then send the lab results to another private lab to have the results confirmed, before you starting treating your cancer.\n\nThe best labs in the country are..\n\nThe Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions\nAnatomic Pathology Consultation Service\n401 N. Broadway\nWeinberg Bldg., Room 2278\nBaltimore, MD 21231-2401\nPhone (410) 955-2405\nAttention: Johnathan Epstein\n\nBostwick Laboratories\n2807 N. Parham Road, Suite 114\nRichmond, VA 23294\nPhone (800) 214-6628\nAttention: David Bostwick\nSpeak to Danijela Bijelic for information