Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men1. In 2024 alone, around 26,400 men received a prostate cancer diagnosis, accounting for almost 28% of all cancers in males2. These numbers are a reminder of how important it is to take prostate health seriously.
The encouraging news is that caring for your prostate doesn’t have to be complicated. In many cases, it begins with something as simple as a conversation with your GP. Early detection saves lives, and understanding your risks and testing options can give you peace of mind and help protect your future health.
Why Talking to Your GP Matters
Your GP is your first point of care when it comes to prostate health. Many men don’t realise that prostate cancer often develops silently, without any noticeable symptoms in the early stages. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may already be more advanced. That’s why regular check-ins with your GP are so important.
During an appointment, your GP will take the time to understand your individual risks based on your age, family history, and lifestyle. They can explain the different testing options, such as the PSA blood test, and guide you through what each result means. Most importantly, they will support you in making informed decisions about your health.
When Should Men Start the Conversation?
For most men, the right time to start talking about prostate health is from the age of 50. However, if you have a family history — such as a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer — it’s best to begin earlier, around the age of 40 to 453. Even if you feel well and have no symptoms, having the conversation is worthwhile. Prostate cancer does not always give early warning signs, and waiting until symptoms appear can reduce the chances of successful treatment.
What to Expect During a Prostate Health Check
It’s common for men to delay making an appointment because they feel uncertain about what a prostate check involves. In reality, the process is usually straightforward.
Your GP will begin with a discussion about your personal and family medical history. From there, they may recommend a simple blood test known as the PSA test, which helps detect changes in the prostate. In some cases, your GP may also suggest a physical exam, though this is not always required4.
Afterwards, you’ll receive clear advice about whether any follow-up steps are needed, including referral to a specialist if necessary. The focus is always on your comfort, confidentiality, and wellbeing.
Common Myths We Hear
❌ “A prostate check is painful.”
✔️ Most checks involve a simple blood test.
❌ “If my PSA is high, it means I have cancer.”
✔️ Not always — many things can raise PSA levels. That’s why a GP helps interpret the results.
❌ “I’m too young to think about it.”
✔️ Risk rises with age, but family history can make earlier checks important.
Looking After Your Whole Health
Caring for your prostate is also about caring for your overall health. A visit to your GP is not just an opportunity to discuss prostate screening, but also to check in on other aspects of men’s health, such as blood pressure, diabetes, and heart health. Your GP can provide advice on mental health, exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle choices like reducing alcohol or quitting smoking.
Sometimes, the most important step you can take for your health is simply booking that first appointment.
This Spring, Take 5 Minutes for Your Health
If you are aged 50 or older, or if you have a family history of prostate cancer, speak to your GP about a prostate health check. Even a 15-minute appointment could be one of the most important things you do for your health this year.
References:
[1] Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, Facts & Figures, https://www.prostate.org.au/risk-and-symptoms/facts-figures
[2] Cancer Australia, Australia Government, Prostate cancer in Australia statistics, https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/cancer-types/prostate-cancer/prostate-cancer-australia-statistics
[3] Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, Prostate cancer in Australia – what do the numbers tell us? https://www.pcfa.org.au/news-media/news/prostate-cancer-in-australia-what-do-the-numbers-tell-us
[4] RACGP, Guidelines for preventive activities in general practice: Prostate Cancer, https://www.racgp.org.au/clinical-resources/clinical-guidelines/key-racgp-guidelines/view-all-racgp-guidelines/preventive-activities-in-general-practice/cancer/prostate-cancer
