$Unique_ID{BRK01050}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is the Rectal Exam for Prostate Cancer Really Necessary?}
$Subject{rectal examination examinations prostate cancer cancers Special
procedure Procedures blood tests computer tomography CT scan magnetic
resonance imaging MRI digital rectum hidden blood stool guaiac test
proctoscopic}
$Volume{P-13}
$Log{
Cancer of the Prostate*0007601.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is the Rectal Exam for Prostate Cancer Really Necessary?


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QUESTION:  I have just completed another regular physical exam, and am happy
that all is in good order.  However, once again, I was subjected to the
embarrassment of a rectal exam for prostate cancer.  With all the developments
in modern medicine, there must surely be a better way to check for this
cancer.  Honestly, Dr. B., is this test really necessary?

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ANSWER:  I'll give you a look at some of the statistics, to help you make the
decision about the importance of this test for yourself.  Estimates by the
American Cancer Society for 1989 reveal 103,000 new cases of prostate cancer
and 28,500 deaths from prostate cancer that has spread.  About 1 out of every
11 men can be expected to have cancer of the prostate, representing 20% of all
diagnosed cancers in men, and 11% of all cancer deaths.  Yet this form of
cancer is considered curable, if the diagnoses can be made early enough,
before the cancer has had a chance to spread, while it is still located only
in the prostate.  To be sure there are some other screening tests that can
help with the diagnosis.  A variety of blood tests exist as well as new
imaging techniques like computer tomography of the pelvis (CT scan) and
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).  Despite the fact that these examinations
hold great promise for the future, none have been proven to be more effective
than a carefully performed digital examination of the rectum.  The American
Cancer Society recommends 3 procedures including 1) a digital rectal
examination each year, 2) a test for hidden blood in the stool (stool guaiac
test) every year after age 50, and 3) periodic proctoscopic examination after
age 50.  The rectal exam must of course, include the examination of the
prostate.  It may be a primitive examination by some standards, but it would
be criminal to abandon a test that is so effective, and so reasonable in cost
that can be an important weapon in helping to reduce the toll in humans lives,
that are lost each year to this form of cancer.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.