Prostate cancer screening: what to know and how to get started

You can’t always feel the early changes that may lead to prostate cancer. Many early prostate cancers grow slowly and cause no symptoms, which is why screening helps. A simple blood test can detect changes in prostate-specific antigen (PSA), giving you and your clinician an early signal that more follow-up may be needed.

Understanding how and when to get screened can help you feel confident and in control of your long-term health.

You will learn:

• What prostate cancer screening is and why it matters
• Who needs screening and how often
• What to expect from a PSA test
• How Curative supports screening and helps you get started

What prostate cancer screening looks for

Prostate cancer screening looks for changes in PSA—a protein produced by the prostate—that may be associated with early cancer or other prostate conditions.

PSA Blood Test

A PSA test is:

• A simple blood draw
• No preparation needed
• Completed in just a few minutes
• Often repeated every 1–2 years

PSA isn’t a cancer diagnosis on its own, but an early indicator that helps guide next steps.

If PSA levels are elevated, your clinician may recommend a repeat test, imaging, or referral to a urologist.

Who should get screened?

Clinical guidelines support prostate cancer screening for adults ages 55–69 through shared decision-making. It’s recommended to discuss individualized risks for prostate cancer and the benefits of screening with your doctor. 

Your clinician may recommend screening earlier—sometimes starting at age 40–45—if you have higher risk, such as:

• A family history of prostate cancer
• Known genetic risks (e.g., BRCA2)
• Other factors such as your ethnicity 

Screening frequency is typically every 1–2 years, depending on your PSA level, age, and personal risk factors.

Why screening matters

Prostate cancer is common, but outcomes are significantly better when it’s found early.

Screening helps by:

• Identifying elevated PSA levels before symptoms appear
• Detecting cancers at earlier, more treatable stages
• Supporting shared decision-making around personal risk

What to expect

PSA Blood Test

Here’s what happens during screening:

1. You visit a lab or clinic for a quick blood draw.
2. You can resume normal activities immediately.
3. Your clinician reviews your results with you.

If the results are high, next steps may include another PSA test, imaging, or urology follow-up.

Where you can go for screening

You can get a PSA test through:

• A primary care clinician A urologist
• Any standard outpatient laboratory

Curative members can find in-network providers here.

How Curative supports your screening

Curative helps you stay on track with preventive care.

With Curative, you get:

• $0 cost-sharing for eligible PSA screening
• Support during your Baseline Visit to decide if screening is right for you
• Care Navigator help to coordinate testing and follow-up
• Reminder support to keep screenings consistent

Screening shouldn’t feel confusing. We’re here to make the process simple and supportive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a PSA test take?

Just a few minutes for a blood draw.

Does a high PSA mean prostate cancer?

Not necessarily—many noncancerous conditions can raise PSA levels.

What happens after an abnormal result?

Your clinician may recommend a repeat test, imaging, or referral to a urologist.

How do I get started through Curative?

Visit the provider search tool or connect with your Care Navigator.

Prostate cancer screening can be a meaningful way to protect your health. If you’re between 55 and 69—or at higher risk—talk with a clinician about whether prostate cancer screening is right for you. Curative supports you with $0 cost-sharing and simple coordination.

Ready to take the next step? Find a provider.