Early detection of prostate cancer

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PSA, MRI, biopsy: knowing where you stand

Early detection of prostate cancer from age 50: PSA, digital rectal examination and personalized follow-up with Dr. Olivier Dumonceau in Paris.

Expertises du docteur Olivier Dumonceau

Introduction

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men over 50. When detected early, treatment options are more numerous, less invasive, and the chances of a cure or good control are much higher. Early detection aims to identify warning signs, even in the absence of symptoms, in order to initiate optimal care.

“Screening is not alarmist: it’s taking action to preserve quality of life.”

Expertise in Prostate Cancer Screening

Expertise Dépistage du cancer de la prostateExpertise Dépistage du cancer de la prostateDr Olivier Dumonceau

Why screen early?

  • Diagnosis at a more favorable stage: small, localized tumors are often easier to treat than advanced forms.
  • Fewer complications: simpler interventions, less risk of spread, fewer severe side effects.
  • Better prognosis: improved survival and quality of life when intervention occurs before the disease progresses.
  • Personalisation of care: based on screening results, choose the most appropriate strategy (active surveillance, surgical treatment, radiotherapy…).

Prostate cancer: what are the signs to watch out for?

Cancer de la prostate : quels sont les signes à surveiller ?Cancer de la prostate : quels sont les signes à surveiller ?Dr Olivier Dumonceau

Who is the screening intended for?

  • All men from age 50: recommended age to start systematic screening.
  • Men from age 45 if there is a family history of prostate cancer (father, brother) or risk factors (Afro-Caribbean ancestry, personal history of urinary problems, etc.).
  • Presence of persistent or unusual urinary symptoms, although cancer is often silent in the early years.

Expertise

Patient journey office

Parcours Patient cabinetParcours Patient cabinetDr Olivier Dumonceau

Signs that should raise concern

  • Difficulty urinating (weak stream, slow start)
  • Nocturia (frequent need to urinate at night)
  • Blood in the urine or in the semen
  • Imaging for staging if needed
  • Bone or lower back pain (sometimes, in cases of widespread pain)

Experience

I have a high PSA level: what should I do?

J'ai un PSA élevé : que faire ?J'ai un PSA élevé : que faire ?Dr Olivier Dumonceau

What does screening involve?

  • prostate ultrasound.
  • Prostate MRI to better locate potential lesions
  • Prostate biopsies, guided (often under ultrasound or MRI) to confirm or rule out cancer
  • Imaging for staging if needed

When and how to decide?

  • assess your personal risks (age, medical history, symptoms, lifestyle)
  • inform you clearly about the benefits and disadvantages
  • define together the most appropriate strategy (active surveillance or intervention)

Your role in screening

  • Be informed: understand what PSA is, what a digital rectal exam is, and what additional tests are available.
  • Follow the recommended schedule according to your age and medical history.
  • Report any new symptoms to your urologist.
  • Adopt a healthy lifestyle: balanced diet, physical activity, avoid being overweight, etc., as some risk factors can be modified.

Patient Journey

Let me introduce you to the typical patient journey, my approach to urology, and how I work.

Do you want to have early screening for prostate cancer?

Early diagnosis increases your chances of recovery and less invasive treatment.

Urology Clinic Paris Opéra – Paris 17th
PSA screening consultation and assessment
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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Why is early detection so important?

When detected before symptoms appear, prostate cancer is localized in more than 80% of cases, with cure rates exceeding 90%. When detected late, treatments are more aggressive and the chances of recovery decrease.

Is PSA testing alone sufficient?

No. PSA levels are interpreted in conjunction with a digital rectal exam, prostate volume, and its changes over time. This comprehensive assessment by the urologist helps avoid both unnecessary anxiety and undetected cancers.

Is an MRI of the prostate routinely performed?

It is performed as soon as an abnormality in PSA or digital rectal examination warrants it. By mapping the prostate, it allows for precise targeting of biopsies, or even avoids them when the image is reassuring.

Does cancer detected early always require surgery?

No. Small, low-grade cancers often require active surveillance: regular PSA checks, MRIs, and biopsies. Treatment is only initiated if the disease progresses, thus preserving quality of life.

Dr Olivier Dumonceau's expertise

Chirurgien Urologue à Paris

Dr Olivier Dumonceau

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