As men age, prostate health becomes an increasingly important part of overall well-being. The prostate—a small gland below the bladder—plays a vital role in the male reproductive system. But with age, it’s also prone to issues such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and even prostate cancer, which is one of the most common cancers in men.
Despite this, many men remain unsure about when to start prostate screenings or how often they should get checked. Some avoid it altogether due to fear, discomfort, or misinformation. But the truth is, early detection can save lives. Prostate problems often develop silently, and catching them early allows for more treatment options and better outcomes.
This article breaks down how often men should get their prostate checked, what tests are involved, and what to expect—so you can make confident, informed choices about your health.
Why Prostate Checks Are Important
Routine prostate health checks are a key part of preventive care for men—especially as they age. The prostate can develop issues silently, with no noticeable symptoms in the early stages. That’s why regular prostate cancer screening and exams are so important.
One of the primary goals of these screenings is to detect prostate cancer early, when it’s most treatable. Prostate cancer often grows slowly and may not cause symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. Early detection through a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test or a digital rectal exam (DRE) can significantly improve long-term outcomes and treatment success.
But cancer isn’t the only concern. Conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate—and prostatitis (inflammation of the gland) can also affect urinary and reproductive function. Prostate exams can help identify these problems early, even if you feel fine.
In short, regular prostate checks give men a chance to catch problems before they progress. It’s a proactive step toward maintaining quality of life and staying ahead of age-related health risks. If you’re over 50—or earlier if you have risk factors—talk to your doctor about the right screening schedule for you.
Prostate Screening Recommendations by Age Group
Understanding when and how often to get screened for prostate issues is essential for long-term prostate health. Screening guidelines are based on age, risk factors, and overall health. Here’s a breakdown by age group based on current medical recommendations and research.
Men Under 40
For most men under 40, routine prostate screening isn’t necessary. Prostate cancer is extremely rare in this age group, and early testing hasn’t shown benefit. However, if you have a very strong family history of prostate cancer—especially a father or brother diagnosed before age 55—or carry genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, your doctor may consider early screening on a case-by-case basis.
Men Ages 40–49
Screening may be recommended for men at higher-than-average risk, particularly:
- African American men (who face a higher risk and tend to develop prostate cancer earlier and more aggressively)
- Men with a first-degree relative diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65
For high-risk individuals in this age group, a baseline PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test may be done, followed by discussions about future screening frequency depending on the results.
Men Ages 50–69
This is the key age group for prostate screening guidelines. Most organizations—including the American Urological Association (AUA) and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)—recommend shared decision-making between patient and provider.
- PSA blood tests are typically done annually or every two years
- Digital Rectal Exams (DRE) may also be included as part of a physical exam
The goal in this age range is to detect cancer early, before it causes symptoms, while avoiding unnecessary biopsies or treatment for slow-growing cancers.
Recent research suggests PSA testing, when combined with risk stratification, can reduce prostate cancer mortality by up to 20% in men aged 55–69.
Men 70 and Older
For men over 70, screening decisions become more individualized. If you’re in good health and have a life expectancy of 10+ years, screening may still offer benefits. However, for men with serious health conditions or limited life expectancy, routine prostate screening is often not recommended, as the risks may outweigh the benefits.
Knowing when to get screened for prostate issues can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes. Talk to your doctor about your age, risk factors, and screening schedule to make the best decision for your health.
What Tests Are Involved in a Prostate Check?
If you’re approaching the age where prostate health becomes a priority, it’s helpful to understand what a standard prostate check involves. The process is straightforward, and knowing what to expect can ease anxiety and support better decision-making.
1. PSA Blood Test
The PSA test is one of the most common and informative tools used during prostate screening. It measures the level of prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland, in your blood. Elevated PSA levels may indicate:
- Prostate enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)
- Prostatitis (inflammation)
- Prostate cancer
However, high PSA doesn’t automatically mean cancer. Levels can rise for various non-cancerous reasons, so your doctor may monitor trends over time or suggest further testing if needed.
2. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
The DRE prostate exam is a quick physical assessment where the doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the back portion of the prostate. They’ll check for:
- Lumps or nodules
- Unusual firmness
- Enlargement or asymmetry
While it’s brief and mildly uncomfortable, the DRE offers valuable information that complements the PSA test.
3. Additional Imaging or Biopsy (If Needed)
If PSA results are elevated or the DRE reveals abnormalities, your doctor may recommend:
- MRI scans for clearer prostate imaging
- Ultrasound-guided biopsy to collect small tissue samples for lab analysis
These follow-ups help determine whether the findings are benign or cancerous, guiding the next steps.
Understanding the PSA test and DRE prostate exam makes screening feel more approachable. If you’re unsure about when to get checked, consult your doctor—they’ll tailor the plan based on your age and risk profile.
Risk Factors That May Change How Often You Screen
Not all men need the same prostate screening schedule. If you fall into certain higher-risk categories, your doctor may recommend starting earlier or testing more frequently. Understanding your prostate cancer risk helps ensure timely and effective care.
1. Family History of Prostate Cancer
If your father, brother, or another close male relative has had prostate cancer, especially at a young age, your risk is significantly higher. Inherited genetic mutations, like BRCA1 or BRCA2, may also play a role. Men with a family history are often advised to begin PSA testing and DREs in their 40s—or even earlier.
2. African American Ethnicity
African American men are more likely to develop prostate cancer and tend to be diagnosed at a younger age and with more aggressive forms. Because of this increased risk, many medical organizations recommend earlier and more frequent screenings starting around age 40–45.
3. Prior Abnormal Test Results
If you’ve previously had an elevated PSA level or an abnormal DRE, even if no cancer was found, you may need closer monitoring. Your doctor might recommend annual testing to track changes over time.
4. Lifestyle and Overall Health
Obesity, smoking, and poor diet may increase cancer risk or complicate treatment. Conversely, staying active and eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables and healthy fats may support better prostate health and reduce risks.
If you fall into any of these risk categories, talk to your doctor about a personalized screening schedule. Early detection can make a critical difference in outcomes—and peace of mind.
>>Related: Natural Ways to Prevent Prostate Cancer: Diet, Lifestyle & Tips
FAQs: What Men Ask Most About Prostate Screening
Is the PSA test enough for prostate screening?
The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test is a valuable tool, but it’s not perfect on its own. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer—but can also result from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, or even recent physical activity. That’s why doctors often combine PSA testing with a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) and consider your risk factors for a more accurate picture.
Do prostate exams hurt?
A DRE may feel uncomfortable, but it’s usually not painful and only takes a few seconds. Your doctor gently inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for any irregularities in the prostate. Most men tolerate it well—and it can provide essential information.
Can I skip screening if I feel fine?
Many prostate conditions, including early-stage prostate cancer, don’t cause noticeable symptoms. That’s why screening is important even if you feel healthy. Waiting until symptoms appear may mean catching problems at a more advanced stage.
How accurate are PSA tests?
PSA tests are helpful but not definitive. High PSA doesn’t always mean cancer, and normal levels don’t completely rule it out. False positives and negatives are possible. That’s why screening results are interpreted in context—with age, prostate size, family history, and follow-up tests like MRI or biopsy when needed.
Conclusion: Stay Proactive About Prostate Health
Regular prostate screening is one of the best ways to detect potential issues early, when they’re most treatable. While not every man will need the same tests at the same intervals, most experts recommend starting screenings by age 50—or earlier if you have a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors.
Understanding how often to get a prostate exam depends on your age, health history, and personal risk profile. That’s why an open conversation with your healthcare provider is essential.
Taking charge of your prostate health isn’t just smart—it’s lifesaving. Make screening part of your routine care and encourage others to do the same.