The function and importance of the prostate

The prostate is a gland located under the bladder and surrounding the urethra, and plays a key role in the male reproductive system. It is responsible for secreting prostatic fluid, which forms part of semen and plays a protective role in the health and survival of sperm. However, as age increases, problems such as prostate hyperplasia, infection, or tumors may occur, which will affect a man’s quality of life and may even be life-threatening.

Methods of prostate examination

1. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)

Digital rectal examination is the simplest and most common way to examine the prostate. The doctor puts on gloves and inserts a lubricated finger into the rectum to palpate the size, shape, and texture of the prostate. This test can help doctors detect abnormalities in the prostate, such as enlargement or hardness.

2. Prostate-Specific Antigen Test (PSA)

The PSA test is a blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen levels. PSA is a protein secreted by the prostate, and levels may increase when there is a problem with the prostate, such as inflammation, growth, or cancer. This test is an important screening tool, but because PSA levels can be affected by many factors, it is not the only criterion for diagnosing prostate cancer.

3. Prostate imaging examination

To learn more about the health of your prostate, your doctor may recommend imaging tests such as transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or Computed tomography (CT). These tests help more accurately assess the size, structure, and presence of tumors in the prostate.

4. Prostate biopsy

If the test results show abnormalities in the prostate, your doctor may recommend a prostate biopsy. During this test, the doctor uses a thin needle to take a sample from the prostate and sends the sample to a laboratory for analysis to determine whether cancer cells are present. Biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosing prostate cancer.

When is a prostate examination necessary?

1. Age factor: Men over the age of 50 are generally recommended to have regular prostate exams. If there is a family history of prostate cancer or other high-risk factors, it is recommended to start screening at age 45 or even earlier.

2. Symptom Tips: If you have symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty urinating, frequent urination at night, weakened urinary flow, or lower abdominal pain, you should seek medical treatment in time, because these may be prostate problems. sign.

3. Preventive health examination: Even if there are no obvious symptoms, regular prostate examination is the key to preventing and early detection of prostate disease.

Benefits of Prostate Examination

1. Early detection of disease: A prostate exam can detect prostate enlargement, inflammation, or cancer early and provide opportunities for treatment to prevent the disease from getting worse.

2. Monitor prostate health: For men who have been diagnosed with prostate problems, regular checkups can help monitor changes in the condition and adjust treatment plans.

3. Improve quality of life: Prompt treatment of prostate problems can reduce symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life, especially in the areas of urination and sexual function.

Conclusion

Prostate examination is an important part of men’s health maintenance. Through digital rectal examination, PSA testing and imaging examinations, prostate problems can be detected early and timely treatment and intervention can be provided. Regardless of whether you have symptoms or not, it is recommended that men over 50 or with a family history of the disease discuss a plan of testing with their doctor to ensure prostate health