During the pandemic, many people put off their routine medical checkups—and this trend was especially noticeable among men. Unfortunately, the delay in prostate cancer screenings has led to a rise in more advanced diagnoses.

“We’re concerned because fewer patients are coming in for their annual screenings,” says Daniel James, MD, MS, a urologist at Dten Medicine. “As a result, we’re often finding prostate cancers at a more advanced stage than we used to. The more advanced the cancer is at the time of diagnosis, the harder it is to treat effectively.”

Why Prostate Cancer Screening Matters

Men at higher risk—due to their family history or ethnic background—should be particularly vigilant about getting screened. The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age, but certain groups should begin screenings earlier:

• At age 40: Men with a first-degree relative (like a father or brother) who was diagnosed with prostate cancer at a young age.
• At age 45: Men of African American heritage or those with a family history of the disease.
• After age 55: All men are at increased risk and should discuss screening with their doctor.

When to Get a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test

The PSA blood test is a simple screening tool that measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate. Elevated PSA levels may indicate the presence of prostate cancer, prompting further evaluation by a urologist.

• If you’re 55 or older: Talk to your doctor about getting a PSA test.
• If you’re 40 and have a family history, or if you’re of African descent: Early screening is recommended.

“Prostate cancer tends to be more aggressive in Black men, and outcomes are often worse,” says Dr. James. “That’s why early detection through screening is so important.”