The prostate exam is still surrounded by many taboos and misinformation. Knowing the myths and facts about this procedure is essential for making good decisions and maintaining men’s health. Learn more!
Many men avoid the doctor’s office out of fear of the rectal exam, putting their health at risk. To avoid this, it is important to uncover the myths and facts about the prostate exam.
In Brazil, prostate cancer is the second most common type among men. According to the National Cancer Institute (INCA), there were 71,730 new cases in 2022 alone. Early detection of prostate cancer, highlighted during the annual Blue November awareness campaign, is the best way to prevent it—and this includes undergoing exams.
Read on to learn about the main myths and facts about the prostate exam that can help you take better care of your health!
The rectal exam is painful: Myth
One of the biggest myths about the rectal exam is that it is extremely uncomfortable and painful, leading many to resist the procedure.
In reality, the exam might feel uncomfortable for some, but the sensation of pain is minimal and temporary. Most of the time, the anxiety leading up to the exam is more troubling than the exam itself.
The rectal exam takes less than a minute: Fact
The rectal exam is quick but efficient. It generally takes less than a minute. During this time, the doctor inserts a finger into the patient’s rectum to assess the size, shape, and texture of the prostate, checking for possible abnormalities.
The PSA test alone is enough to detect prostate problems: Myth
Another common myth is that the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test alone can detect prostate cancer. Although the PSA test is important for measuring antigen levels in the blood and identifying abnormalities, it does not replace the rectal exam.
Only elderly men need to take the exam: Partially true
Age is a significant risk factor for incidence and mortality, especially after age 60. Therefore, men in this age group should visit a urologist at least once a year.
Populations at increased risk for prostate cancer should be vigilant regardless of age. These include:
- Family history of prostate cancer
- Overweight and obesity
- Smoking
- Exposure to toxic substances
The prostate exam causes impotence: Myth
Many men believe the prostate exam causes impotence, but this is a myth that needs to be debunked. The rectal exam is a physical evaluation and does not interfere with penile function.
Erectile dysfunction cases are mostly caused by vascular issues or psychological reasons. Furthermore, surgery to treat cancer can result in erectile dysfunction as a side effect, which can be treated later.
Early detection reduces prostate cancer mortality: Fact
This is a crucial fact: early detection is key! When prostate cancer is identified in its initial stages, the chances of cure are extremely high.
Performing a rectal exam, when necessary, allows for identifying the disease before it progresses to more severe stages and enables less invasive treatments.
Black men need early monitoring: Fact
Black men are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer. This population tends to experience higher incidence rates and more aggressive cases, both due to biomolecular factors and inequalities that hinder access to healthcare.
Approximately 60% of prostate cancer cases occur in Black men.
Frequent prostate exams can harm men’s health: Myth
This is another unfounded myth. Regular prostate exams do not harm health. However, in men without risk factors, there is no need for frequent exams.
For those with risk factors, rectal and PSA exams are essential to detect possible changes that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The rectal exam can be replaced by other tests: Myth
Despite medical advancements, the rectal exam remains essential. The rectal exam allows doctors to evaluate prostate tissue in a precise, quick, and cost-effective way.
There is a need for complementary tests, such as the PSA. However, this test alone does not confirm a prostate cancer diagnosis.
The prostate exam helps detect abnormalities beyond cancer: Fact
The prostate exam isn’t just for detecting prostate cancer. It helps identify other conditions, such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which require specific treatment and monitoring.
The prostate exam saves lives: Fact
This is one of the most important facts about the prostate exam. Preventive exams can save many lives annually by increasing the chances of early diagnosis and, consequently, timely and effective treatment.
Signs and symptoms of prostate problems
Staying alert to signs can help identify symptoms of the disease, even if a man is not up to date with his exams. These include:
- Difficulty or pain when urinating
- Increased urinary frequency
- Pain in the lower back
- Blood in the urine
On the other hand, these symptoms may indicate various diseases. Therefore, a medical consultation is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
When to seek a urologist
Men at risk for developing prostate cancer or those showing symptoms should consult a doctor, whether for regular preventive exams or medical care.
A urologist appointment ensures early diagnosis and, consequently, a higher likelihood of cure. It also provides more clarification on the myths and facts about prostate cancer.
Take care of your prostate health for a healthy life
Prioritizing prostate health is essential for all men, especially those who wish to maintain fertility and a good quality of sexual life.
Understanding the myths and facts about the prostate exam and starting prevention is a step in the right direction. Prejudice and fear should not be obstacles to taking care of your health!
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