Prostate Screening
BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) is not cancer. It is when the prostate becomes enlarged and blocks the urethra or the bladder. The symptoms of BPH are very similar to that of cancer and if you have any of the symptoms you should be tested. You need to make an appointment with the doctor.
Symptoms
Need to urinate more frequently especially at night
Urgency
Difficulty starting and stopping flow
Inability to urinate
Burning or pain during urination
Blood in urine or semen
Painful ejaculations
PSA is covered if for diagnostic purposes, in regards to a man’s history or if being followed for cancer. PSA should be monitored yearly if there is a first degree relative (brother or father) who has had prostate cancer.
At the present time, the screening PSA (patient is asymptomatic) is not covered by OHIP and there is a cost of $35. These could be followed every 2-3 years unless symptomatic.
