Prevention & Screening | Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare
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Prostate cancer found early offers more treatment options and better outcomes. Unlike some cancers, though, not all prostate cancers need immediate treatment. That's why screening decisions should be made through conversation between you and your doctor, considering your personal risk factors, overall health, and what matters most to you.

JHAH believes in informed decision-making about prostate cancer screening. We help you understand the benefits and limitations so you can make the choice that's right for you.

JHAH Recommendations for Prostate Cancer Screening

JHAH recommends that men discuss prostate cancer screening based on their individual risk level and health status. This conversation is crucial for making an informed decision about testing.

Higher Risk Men (Age 40-45):

  • African descent
  • BRCA1/2 or other gene mutations
  • Strong family history (father or brother diagnosed before age 65)

Average Risk Men: Men at average risk should begin screening discussions at age 45-50.

Regular Screening Age (50-70): Men should discuss regular screening during this window.

After Age 70: Screening decisions become more individual, based on overall health and life expectancy.

Screening Methods

Our screening approach combines PSA testing with physical examination to give the most complete assessment of prostate health.

The PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test measures a protein your prostate produces. Elevated levels can indicate prostate cancer, but they can also point to benign conditions like an enlarged prostate or inflammation. PSA alone doesn't diagnose cancer. It's a signal that helps us decide if further testing makes sense.

Generally, PSA below 4.0 ng/mL is considered normal, levels between 4.0 and 10.0 fall into a gray zone, and anything above 10.0 is elevated. But these numbers don't tell the whole story. Your PSA can go up temporarily after certain activities or infections. Sometimes the rate of PSA change over time matters more than a single number. We also consider your age and prostate size when interpreting results.

This physical exam lets your doctor feel the prostate for abnormalities that might not show up in PSA testing. Combined with PSA, it gives us a more complete picture.

If your PSA is elevated, we use additional tools to refine your risk assessment. Risk calculators like the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial calculator incorporate multiple factors beyond just PSA. Newer biomarker tests like the Prostate Health Index (PHI), 4Kscore, or SelectMDx can help us figure out whether you actually need a biopsy or if we can safely continue monitoring.

If Further Testing Is Needed

If an abnormality is found, our advanced diagnostic services provide accurate information about what we're seeing. Modern imaging like multiparametric MRI and MRI-ultrasound fusion biopsy ensures precise diagnosis when necessary.

Learn more about our Diagnosis & Testing services

Understanding Your Genetic Risk

Genetic counseling helps identify whether you carry inherited gene mutations that increase prostate cancer risk. You should consider genetic counseling if you have a family history of prostate, breast, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer. Men with BRCA1/2 mutations face significantly higher prostate cancer risk and may benefit from earlier, more frequent screening.

The Genetic Testing Process

Genetic testing begins with a counseling session where we review your personal and family history. Testing requires only a simple blood or saliva sample to analyze BRCA1/2 and other cancer-related genes. Once results are available, our genetic counselors explain what they mean for you and your family, help you develop a management plan, and provide guidance on whether family members should consider testing.

If Testing Reveals a Mutation

If testing reveals a mutation, we create a personalized screening plan. This may include earlier screening starting in your 40s, more frequent PSA testing, or consideration of prostate MRI. We also monitor for other cancers associated with your specific mutation, ensuring comprehensive protection for your health.

Connecting Your Screening Results to Complete Care

Prevention and screening are the first steps in prostate health. Based on your screening results and risk factors, our comprehensive prostate cancer services ensure you receive the right care at the right time.

Our Diagnosis & Testing team uses advanced imaging and molecular analysis when PSA levels or examination findings require closer investigation. For those at elevated risk, our Specialized Programs provide targeted expertise, from active surveillance protocols to genetic counseling.

If treatment becomes necessary, our multidisciplinary team creates Personalized Treatment Plans using the latest advances in surgery, radiation, and systemic therapy. Throughout every phase, our Support & Survivorship Services help you navigate the practical and emotional aspects of your journey.

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