Prostate Health: Questions every man should ask

As men get older, it’s important to take care of every part of their health, including the prostate. Many men don’t think about their prostate until there’s a problem. But learning about it early—and asking the right questions—can help you stay healthy and avoid serious issues down the road. This blog will walk you through the most important things every man should know about the prostate in a way that’s easy to understand.
Let’s start with the basics and move on to the common concerns and questions you should ask your doctor. Whether you’re 40, 50, or older, it’s never too early to learn more about prostate health.
 

1. What is the prostate, and what does it do?

The prostate is a small gland, about the size of a walnut. It sits just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Even though it’s small, it plays a big role in male health. The prostate makes a fluid that mixes with sperm to help it move more easily. This fluid is part of semen.
The prostate wraps around the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from your bladder out of the body. Because of its location, changes in the size or health of the prostate can affect how you pee.
 

2. What are the most common prostate problems?

As men age, the prostate can change. Some of these changes are normal, but others can lead to problems. Here are the three most common issues:

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): This means the prostate is getting bigger, which is common as men get older. BPH is not cancer, but it can cause trouble with urination, such as a weak stream or needing to pee a lot, especially at night.
• Prostatitis: This is inflammation or infection of the prostate. It can cause pain when you pee, lower back pain, or discomfort in the area between your testicles and your anus. Sometimes it’s caused by bacteria, and other times it’s not.
• Prostate cancer: This is one of the most common cancers in men. The good news is that it usually grows slowly and can be treated successfully, especially if found early. Many men with prostate cancer live long, healthy lives after treatment.

 
3. At what age should I start getting my prostate checked?

Most doctors recommend starting regular prostate checks at age 50. But some men are at higher risk and may need to start earlier, around age 40 or 45. You may be at higher risk if:

• You have a father, brother, or other close family member who had prostate cancer
• You are African American

Talk to your doctor to find out the best time for you to start screening.
 

4. What are the symptoms of prostate problems?

Knowing the signs of prostate issues can help you catch problems early. Here are some common symptoms:

• Needing to pee often, especially at night
• Trouble starting or stopping urine flow
• Weak or slow stream of urine
• Pain or burning when peeing or during ejaculation
• Blood in your urine or semen
• Pain in your lower back, hips, or pelvis

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to talk to your doctor. These symptoms don’t always mean cancer, but they do mean something isn’t right.
 

5. What is a psa test, and do I need one?

The PSA test is a simple blood test that checks your level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). PSA is a protein made by the prostate. Higher levels can be a sign of a problem, like an enlarged prostate, infection, or prostate cancer.
Doctors use the PSA test as a first step to screen for prostate cancer. It’s not perfect, and high PSA doesn’t always mean cancer. But it can help catch issues early.
Whether you need a PSA test depends on your age, health, and risk level. Ask your doctor if it’s right for you.
 

6. How is prostate cancer treated if I'm diagnosed?

If you’re diagnosed with prostate cancer, don’t panic. There are many treatment options, and many cases grow slowly. Your doctor will help you choose the best plan for your health and lifestyle. Some common treatments include:
Active surveillance: If the cancer is small and not causing problems, your doctor might suggest keeping a close eye on it with regular tests.

• Surgery: In some cases, the prostate is removed to get rid of the cancer.
• Radiation therapy: This uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
• Hormone therapy: This lowers the levels of certain hormones that help prostate cancer grow.

Some men need a mix of treatments. Your care team will guide you through every step.
 

7. Can I lower my risk of prostate cancer?

Thre’s no sure way to prevent prostate cancer, but there are things you can do to lower your risk and improve your overall health:

• Eat a healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stay active with regular exercise
• Keep a healthy weight
• Don’t smoke, and limit alcohol
• Get regular check-ups and talk to your doctor about prostate health

Taking care of your body helps every part of your health, including your prostate.
 

8. What should I ask my doctor about the prostate?

When you visit your doctor, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Here are a few good ones to start with:

• Should I have a prostate exam or PSA test?
• When should I start getting screened?
• Are there any signs I should watch for?
• What are my risk factors?
• What can I do to stay healthy as I age?

Being open and honest with your doctor helps you get the best care possible.
 

9. What happens during a prostate exam?

There are two main ways doctors check your prostate:

• PSA Blood Test: As we mentioned earlier, this checks for prostate-specific antigen levels in your blood.
• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): This may sound uncomfortable, but it’s quick. Your doctor gently inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to feel the prostate for any lumps or unusual changes.

Both of these tests can help catch problems early, when they’re easier to treat.
 

10. What if I'm nervous about getting checked?

It’s normal to feel nervous about medical exams. But remember—these tests can save your life. Catching a problem early means you have more treatment options and a better chance of staying healthy.
Bring a friend or family member to your appointment if it helps. And don’t be shy—your doctor has seen it all and is there to help you.
 

Take charge of your prostate health

Your prostate might be small, but it has a big impact on your health. Learning about it now can help you avoid problems later. Don’t wait until you have symptoms—start the conversation early.
Whether you’re in your 40s or well into your senior years, understanding and caring for your prostate is a key part of staying healthy.
At Sanitas Medical Center, we’re here to help you take charge of your health. Our caring doctors can answer your questions, perform screenings, and help you stay on track with regular check-ups.

Call 1-844-665-4827 to book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier future.

 

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