Prostate Knowledge Archive

Every year, millions of men around the world get a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. Abnormal readings on the test suggest a man might have prostate cancer. But how should an abnormal result be interpreted?

High-resolution micro-ultrasound may be an efficient alternative to using MRI plus conventional ultrasound to guide prostate biopsies, according to a 2025 study. The micro-ultrasound method proved as accurate as MRI guidance, but requires fewer visits and costs less.

For men who choose prostate cancer screening, it begins with measuring prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. Scientists continue to explore strategies beyond PSA testing to identify men who should have biopsies because they are more likely to have intermediate or high-risk cancer. These strategies include other types of PSA measurements, urine tests for genes, new imaging methods and artificial intelligence that works to improve the accuracy and efficiency of MRI and biopsies.

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends against screening for prostate cancer in men older than 70, but as life expectancy for this group increases and treatment options evolve, it's important for men to be aware of their options.

Marketed as a natural remedy for an enlarged prostate, saw palmetto is a top-selling dietary supplement. By one estimate, more than a third of all US adults who take supplements use saw palmetto. But experts at Harvard say men should view its supposed benefits for prostate health skeptically.

The troubling symptoms of prostatitis, or inflammation of the prostate, accounts for roughly two million doctor visits every year. Fortunately, research advances are leading to some encouraging developments for men suffering from this condition.

Most men with prostate cancer have low-grade cancer, meaning the cancer is unlikely to spread or affect quality of life or longevity. But men whose initial prostate biopsy shows an intermediate-risk or high-risk cancer, or those who began active surveillance for low-risk cancer but develop a rising PSA or new symptoms suggesting aggressive cancer, have several treatment options available. These include different combinations of radiation, surgery, androgen deprivation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and anti-androgens.

Most men over 50 will develop an enlarged prostate. Many different therapies are available, including medications and various types of surgery. Aquablation is gaining in popularity, and a recent study showed that improvements in urinary function from aquablation were still holding up after five years.