American Cancer Society updates prostate cancer screening guidelines

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.

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FARGO — The American Cancer Society has issued new prostate cancer screening guidelines.

It's now recommending routine blood tests for men at average risk starting at age 50.

Sanford urologist Dr. Kathryn Agamawi says the update makes it clearer who should get screened and when.

The guidelines call for a PSA blood test every two years for men at average risk through age 69.

Black men and men with a strong family history of prostate issues are among those advised to get tested every year starting at 45.

Agamawi says an infection can also raise PSA levels. If the result is high, doctors may use an MRI to help decide whether a biopsy is needed.

"The challenge with prostate cancer is very often we don't see signs or symptoms of prostate cancer until it's really advanced, and that is one of the things that highlights the importance of screening. If you come in with symptoms from prostate cancer, we do often worry that you're going to have more progressive disease," Agamawi said.

Agamawi says you can ask your primary care provider whether you're due for a PSA test. It can be drawn with routine bloodwork.

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Matthew Freeman has been a reporter for WDAY since 2026. He is a graduate of Dan Patrick's School for Sports Broadcasting at Full Sail University. He is from Panama City Beach, FL.

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