Prostate cancer remains a significant health issue for American men, being the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death. Despite advances in cancer treatment, prostate cancer survival rates have not improved significantly since 1949. Scientific studies have not found a consistent link between prostate cancer and factors like diet, sexual habits, or smoking, though higher testosterone levels and family history may play a role. Prostate cancer is a slow-growing tumor that often goes undetected, with many men living for years without symptoms. Currently, there is no reliable screening test for prostate cancer that is inexpensive, non-invasive, and accurate. The digital rectal exam is widely used but not very accurate. The PSA test, which measures prostate-specific antigen in blood, is useful for monitoring cancer progression but has high rates of false positives and negatives. It is not recommended as a standalone screening tool due to its inaccuracy and cost. The PSA test can be useful in certain situations, such as when a nodule is detected during a rectal exam or for men with specific risk factors. The Occupational Medicine Services at Lewis recommend annual rectal exams for men over 40, though the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force does not recommend annual rectal exams. The American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute recommend annual rectal exams for men over 40, but none advocate the PSA test for asymptomatic men. Men considering a PSA test should consult their personal physician.Prostate cancer remains a significant health issue for American men, being the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death. Despite advances in cancer treatment, prostate cancer survival rates have not improved significantly since 1949. Scientific studies have not found a consistent link between prostate cancer and factors like diet, sexual habits, or smoking, though higher testosterone levels and family history may play a role. Prostate cancer is a slow-growing tumor that often goes undetected, with many men living for years without symptoms. Currently, there is no reliable screening test for prostate cancer that is inexpensive, non-invasive, and accurate. The digital rectal exam is widely used but not very accurate. The PSA test, which measures prostate-specific antigen in blood, is useful for monitoring cancer progression but has high rates of false positives and negatives. It is not recommended as a standalone screening tool due to its inaccuracy and cost. The PSA test can be useful in certain situations, such as when a nodule is detected during a rectal exam or for men with specific risk factors. The Occupational Medicine Services at Lewis recommend annual rectal exams for men over 40, though the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force does not recommend annual rectal exams. The American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute recommend annual rectal exams for men over 40, but none advocate the PSA test for asymptomatic men. Men considering a PSA test should consult their personal physician.