New National Survey From MedStar Health Finds Many Men Over 55 Are Missing Prostate Cancer Screening

COLUMBIA, Md., Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A new national survey from MedStar Health suggests millions of men age 55 and older may be missing chances to get screened for prostate cancer, even though it is one of the most common cancers in men. 

Of surveyed men age 55 and older, 30% have never had a prostate exam. Almost four in ten said they haven't received a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test for prostate cancer. 

PSA screening is recommended at least every two to four years for men at average risk ages 55 through 69. 

"Prostate cancer is common, and it may not cause clear symptoms early on," said Jonathan J. Hwang, MD, chair of Urology at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. "These findings show that many men may be putting off screening or may not know what warning signs to watch for." 

About one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. 

Patient Jack Chungo's prostate cancer journey began after noticing a drop in energy levels and weight loss. Doctors found his PSA levels were about 10 times higher than normal. After treatment with hormone therapy and CyberKnife® radiation at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Chungo is now cancer free. 

"Thankfully, my PSA number is now very low," Chungo said. "If you get prostate cancer, you want your doctors to catch it as early as possible. Earlier screening helps them do that."  

MedStar Health's survey also found that 41% of men either know someone who has had prostate cancer or have had it themselves. However, only 6% can identify all symptoms of prostate cancer including: 

• Difficult, frequent, or urgent urination 
• Blood in urine or semen 
• Fatigue 
• Lower back, hip, or thigh pain 
• Erectile dysfunction 
• Weight loss 

"It's always OK for men to talk with their doctor about prostate cancer symptoms or their potential risk," said Stephen Ronson, MD, medical director of Radiation Oncology at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center. "They can find out when screening makes sense and what symptoms should prompt evaluation." 

Prostate cancer risk depends on family history, inherited gene changes, and racial background, with Black men facing a higher burden of disease. 

For men at increased risk, screening is recommended to begin starting between age 40 and 45. 

For more information about prostate cancer risk, symptoms, and screening, visit www.MedStarHealth.org/ProstateCancer 

SOURCE MedStar Health