With early detection, prostate cancer is virtually 100% curable. Men over the age of 50 should have yearly prostate exams. If you have a family history of the disease, however, your doctor may recommend earlier screenings. There are three main types of tests which can detect an early incidence of prostate cancer:

• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test – This blood test measures the level of PSA in the body. PSA is a protein made by normal cells and prostate cancer cells.

• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) – During this exam, a doctor or nurse inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum and feels the prostate through the rectal wall for lumps or abnormal areas.

• Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) - TRUS is used to measure the size of the prostate and visually identify tumors. A probe inserted into the rectum emits ultrasonic impulses against the prostate. The images are projected on a monitor, so the physician can examine the gland and surrounding tissue for tumors.

* Early detection information obtained from the American Cancer Society and urologychannel websites.