The prostate changes throughout adult life, and so do the questions worth asking about it. A man in his 40s needs different information from a man in his 70s. This guide sets out what tends to matter most at each stage, so you can focus on the right things at the right time.
In your 40s
Most men in their 40s have no prostate symptoms. This is a good decade to:
- learn your family history: ask whether your father, brothers or uncles have had prostate cancer, and whether there is breast or ovarian cancer in the family
- understand your risk: Black men and men with a strong family history have a higher risk. Our article on who is most at risk explains why.
- consider early testing: higher-risk men may wish to discuss a PSA test with their GP from around 45
Prostatitis, inflammation of the prostate, can cause pelvic pain or urinary symptoms at this age and is worth getting checked.
In your 50s
From 50, prostate cancer becomes more common, and any man can ask his GP for a PSA test after discussing the pros and cons. Our guide to whether to have a PSA test sets these out.
This is also when the prostate often starts to grow again. Early signs of an enlarged prostate include:
- getting up once or twice at night to pass urine
- a flow that is slower than it used to be
- needing to go more urgently
A first PSA result in your 50s can be a useful baseline for later.
In your 60s
The chance of prostate cancer rises further in this decade, and urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate become very common. It is worth:
- reporting urinary changes rather than putting up with them
- keeping a record of any PSA results so trends can be seen
- reviewing any medicines that might affect the bladder
Many treatments for an enlarged prostate are now less invasive than in the past, such as Aquablation therapy, iTind and prostate artery embolisation. Tablets are often tried first, and many men find their symptoms improve enough that nothing further is needed.
In your 70s and beyond
Decisions about testing become more individual. For some men in good health, finding and treating a significant cancer is still worthwhile. For others, especially with other health conditions, the balance may favour less testing. A good conversation with your GP or urologist should take into account your general health, your own wishes and how you feel about the possible results. There is no fixed age at which testing must stop, and the decision can be reviewed as circumstances change.
Urinary symptoms may also need more attention. Signs to report promptly include:
- difficulty passing urine at all
- blood in the urine
- new bone pain
The NHS prostate cancer guide explains the warning signs at any age.
Healthy habits at every age
There is no single way to prevent prostate problems, but some habits support overall health:
- keeping to a healthy weight
- staying physically active
- eating plenty of vegetables, fruit and whole grains
- not smoking and keeping alcohol within recommended limits
Our article answering common prostate cancer prevention questions looks at the evidence, and Prostate Cancer UK has practical advice on diet and activity.
Knowing when to seek advice
Whatever your age, do not wait for symptoms to become severe. Changes in passing urine, blood in the urine or semen, and unexplained pain in the back or hips are all reasons to see your GP.
Professor Prokar Dasgupta sees men at every stage of life at The London Clinic, 145 Harley Street. Please contact the clinic to arrange a consultation.