Early prostate checks can save lives

There is a small gland that most men rarely think about--until it causes trouble. It is called the prostate. About the size of a walnut, it sits just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. Though small, it plays a significant role in urinary and reproductive health.

For men over 40 years old, understanding the prostate is not optional. It is essential.

What happens to the prostate with age?

As men grow older, the prostate commonly enlarges. This condition, known as benign prostatic enlargement (BPE), can cause urinary symptoms such as a weak stream, straining, frequent urination, urgency, or waking multiple times at night to pass urine. This is not cancerous but can significantly affect quality of life if untreated.

More concerning, however, is prostate cancer.

In Jamaica and across the Caribbean, prostate cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting men. Too often, it is diagnosed late--when symptoms appear and the disease has already advanced. Yet prostate cancer, when detected early, is highly treatable and often curable.

One of the greatest challenges with prostate cancer is that it usually causes no symptoms in its early stages. A man can feel completely well while cancer is quietly developing.

By the time symptoms such as bone pain, weight loss, or difficulty urinating appear, the disease may already be advanced. At that stage, treatment becomes more complex and outcomes less favourable.

Screening changes that story.

What is prostate screening?

Screening typically involves:

* A blood test called the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen)

* A simple digital rectal examination (DRE), where the doctor feels the prostate to assess its size and texture

These tests are quick and can be done during a routine visit. They are not perfect, but when used appropriately--especially in men over 40 or those with a family history--they allow us to detect problems early.

Early detection provides options: active surveillance, minimally invasive treatment, surgery, radiation therapy, and other modern interventions. Late detection limits those choices.

Who should be screened?

Men over 40 should begin discussions with their doctor about prostate screening. It is important to note that screening is not about causing fear, it is about empowering men with information.

Breaking the Myths

Many men avoid screening out of embarrassment or misinformation. The digital exam is brief and medically professional. The PSA test is a simple blood draw. Neither should stand between a man and potentially life-saving information.

Some believe that if they feel fine, there is no need to check. But prostate cancer does not wait for symptoms to appear before it progresses.

A matter of responsibility

As men, we take pride in protecting our families and planning for the future. Prostate screening is part of that responsibility. It is a small investment of time that can add years of life.

In Jamaica, where prostate cancer remains a serious public health concern, early detection is one of the most powerful tools we have. When caught early, survival rates are dramatically higher. When ignored, the consequences can be devastating.

If you are over 40 and have never had a prostate check, let this be your moment to act. Speak with your doctor. Know your numbers. Understand your risk.

Because men's health matters.

Dr Elon Thompson is a consultant urologist with extensive experience in treating a range of urological conditions. He also serves as a government senator, contributing his medical expertise to national policy discussions.