Rectal examination remains crucial for diagnosing prostate cancer
Quelle: VIDEOELEPHANT (Glomex)
Rectal examination remains a key step in diagnosing prostate cancer, as reported by the Vita project developed by Folha de São Paulo with support from Hospital Sírio-Libanês. Even though a more accurate prostate MRI exists, it is not financially feasible for widespread screening. The rectal examination complements the PSA test (prostate-specific antigen) as about 10% of tumors do not show abnormalities in the blood test. The examination allows for the identification of hardened nodules and changes in prostate size. Screening is recommended from the age of 50, or from the age of 45 in the presence of risk factors such as family history, obesity, or in the black population, which has a higher incidence and mortality from the disease. The procedure takes 15 to 20 seconds, is performed in practice with lubricant and anesthetic, and is assessed by the doctor to determine the size and consistency of the prostate. Cancer confirmation is done through a biopsy, and multiparametric MRI is used as a complementary examination to more accurately depict suspicious changes. Experts emphasize the importance of raising awareness on this issue to reduce men's feelings of shame, as the fear of injury to their sexual abilities or a threat to their masculinity still poses a barrier to undergoing the examination.