What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably. It’s one of the most common types of cancer among men, especially those over age 50. Regular screenings can catch it early, when it's most treatable.
Symptoms & Risks
Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Issues
In the early stages, prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, you should speak to a doctor if you experience:
- Frequent urination – Especially at night
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain in the hips, pelvis, or back
- Erectile dysfunction
These symptoms can also indicate non-cancerous conditions like an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostatitis.
Who is at Risk?
Men with certain risk factors may face higher chances of developing prostate cancer. These include:
- Age – Risk increases after age 50
- Family History – Especially if a close relative had prostate cancer
- Race – Black men are at greater risk and often have more aggressive cancers*
*Source: CDC
Let Us Help You Find a Primary Care Provider
Prostate cancer screenings often start with your primary care physician. If you don’t have one, we can help you find the right fit. Take control of your health and schedule a visit – Baptist Health offers expert screenings and personalized care to support your long-term health.
Quick Facts
More than 12,000 PSA blood tests performed across Baptist Health each year
More than 90% early detection rate for prostate cancer at Baptist Health at a highly treatable stage
Men’s health goes beyond the prostate
Explore our full range of men’s health services.
About Prostate Cancer Screening
Your Health, Our Commitment
Most insurance plans cover prostate screenings and treatment. Our financial services team is here to help verify your coverage and explore any financial aid options available, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to your care.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The prostate is a walnut-sized gland in men that helps produce semen. It’s located just below the bladder and surrounds part of the urethra. While it plays an important role in reproduction, the prostate is also prone to enlargement and other health conditions as men age.
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No. An enlarged prostate (also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH) is a common condition in older men and is not cancer. However, symptoms can be similar, so evaluation is important.
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PSA stands for Prostate-Specific Antigen. It is a protein made by the prostate gland, which is located just below the bladder in men. Small amounts of PSA naturally circulate in the blood, but higher levels may be a sign of prostate conditions, including prostate cancer, enlarged prostate (BPH), or inflammation.
The PSA test is a simple blood test that measures how much of this protein is in your bloodstream. While a higher PSA level does not always mean cancer, it helps physicians decide if more tests or monitoring are needed. This test is often used alongside other screening tools to detect problems early, when they’re easier to treat.
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A normal PSA level is generally considered to be below 4.0 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) of blood. However, what’s “normal” can vary based on your age, prostate size, family history, and other health factors.
Some men with lower PSA levels may still have prostate cancer, while others with higher levels may have noncancerous conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis.
Your physician will look at your PSA results along with your medical history and other tests to determine whether further evaluation is needed.
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An abnormal or elevated PSA result doesn’t always mean you have cancer – but it’s an indication to look closer. Your primary care physician may recommend repeating the test, ordering advanced imaging such as an MRI, or referring you to a urologist who specializes in prostate care. In some cases, a prostate biopsy may be needed to better understand the cause.
Need a primary care physician? We can help you find one and get started.
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Yes. Prostate cancer screenings usually begin with a PSA blood test during a visit with your primary care physician. See our primary care locations here.
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You can schedule an appointment with your primary care provider. If you don’t have a primary care provider, we can help you find one.
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Yes, a referral is needed to see a urologist.
Prostate cancer screenings usually begin with your primary care physician. If your PSA level is elevated, your physician may refer you to a urologist – often one with expertise in prostate cancer care.
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You can go to any of our convenient primary care locations to get screened for prostate cancer. If further care is needed, our specialists at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute and Lynn Cancer Institute are here to provide expert care.
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A high PSA level doesn’t always mean cancer – but if you are diagnosed, you won’t face it alone. Baptist Health offers expert care and a full range of treatment options through our nationally recognized cancer institutes.
If you have questions or have recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer, we’re here to help.
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At Baptist Health, we’re here for you beyond treatment. Our support services include rehabilitation, mental health counseling, survivorship care, and nutrition guidance.
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A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats, regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking may help reduce risk. Some studies also suggest limiting red meat and processed foods.
Don’t Wait. Take Control of Your Health Today.
Beyond Screening: Expert Prostate Care if You Need It
If your screening results lead to a prostate cancer diagnosis, Baptist Health offers expert, compassionate care every step of the way.
As a leader in advanced prostate care, we provide:
- Collaborative expertise from primary care physicians, urologists, and oncologists
- Precision imaging and minimally invasive procedures focused on preserving your quality of life
- Innovative treatments available through clinical trials and ongoing research
We’re here to support you every step of the way with compassionate, personalized care built around your needs.
Compassionate Care at Every Step
