Prostate Cancer Testing: A Vital Step for Men's Health in South Africa
Prostate cancer poses a significant health risk to men in South Africa, with a rising incidence rate in recent years. It is estimated that one in every 19 South African men will develop prostate cancer. However, the key to combating this disease lies in timely detection through regular screenings. Unfortunately, many men face barriers such as limited access to healthcare, busy schedules, and a lack of awareness, causing delays in seeking essential medical attention. In this article, we will explore the significance of prostate cancer screening and how our telehealth platform offers a convenient solution.
Don't wait for symptoms to appear or risk a delayed diagnosis. Take charge of your health today by booking a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test online to measure the level of PSA in your blood, which can increase due to prostate cancer and other noncancerous prostate conditions.
Importance of Prostate Health Checks
Prostate health checks, which include PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) tests, play a crucial role in the early detection and management of prostate-related conditions.
What is a PSA test?
A PSA test, also known as a Prostate-Specific Antigen test, is a blood test used to measure the levels of PSA in the bloodstream. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and its levels can be elevated in various prostate conditions, including prostate cancer. The test involves a simple blood draw, typically performed by a healthcare professional.
Why is this test important?
PSA is a chemical found in the bloodstream of men at higher levels when the prostate gland is enlarged or cancerous. Although not a definite diagnosis of prostate cancer, a higher-than-normal PSA level can be a sign that something isn't quite right and that additional testing is needed. Doing a PSA test may help to detect prostate cancer at an early stage before any symptoms (e.g. difficulty starting urination and frequent urination at night, among others) are present.
Symptoms you might experience
In the early stages of prostate cancer, there are often no symptoms.
If symptoms appear, they may include:
- An increased need to urinate, especially at night
- A sudden need to urinate
- Feeling like the bladder has not emptied fully
- Difficulty starting or stopping a stream of urine
- Visible blood in semen and/or urine
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain in the pelvis, thighs, and back
- Erectile dysfunction
Who should be tested?
In general, prostate cancer is most likely to be diagnosed in men between 50 and 75, though the American Cancer Association recommends screening men earlier under certain circumstances.
You should consider PSA testing if:
- You have a family history of prostate cancer
- You are over the age of 45
- You have been diagnosed with prostatitis
- You have been diagnosed with prostatic hyperplasia
- You are living with erectile dysfunction
- You are on medication for cholesterol, urinary issues, low testosterone or high blood pressure
- You are overweight or obese
How It Works
1.Purchase your test |
Simply click our product link & add it to your cart |
2. Choose your area, time, and date |
By selecting a nearby area, we will match you with the closest laboratory |
3. Visit a location |
You will receive a confirmation on where to get your sample taken via email. Take the booking form to our facility where a medical professional will collect the sample |
4.Get your results |
You will get a copy of your report electronically. When your results are ready, we will send them to you in a clear, easy-to-read report. If your results differ from the expected ranges, our clinical team will contact you with the next steps |
Testimonials
See what some of our satisfied customers have to say about their experience:
"I was skeptical about getting my PSA test done online, but the service exceeded my expectations. The process was straightforward and within a few days, I received my results. It was convenient and gave me peace of mind." - Mark S (55) from Cape Town
“The procedure for getting the test done at the laboratory was simple and straightforward. Overall it was convenient, and my results were explained in a way that I could understand” - James R (60) from Port Elizabeth
“Quick and simple. Thanks to the blood test, I was made aware of what my current prostate health looked like.”- Blessing S (53) from Durban
Key takeaway
Prostate cancer is a serious health concern that affects millions of men worldwide. Early detection is critical for successful treatment, which is why prostate cancer screening is so important. If detected early, prostate cancer can often be treated effectively, and the chances of survival are much higher.
Men who are at higher risk of developing prostate cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease or African American men, may need to start screening at an earlier age or have more frequent screenings.
If you are a man over the age of 50, or if you have risk factors for prostate cancer, it is important to look at your screening options. By taking an active role in your healthcare, you can help detect prostate cancer early and improve your chances of successful treatment. Don't wait until symptoms appear; book a test today.