Entering the age of 50, men often begin to feel changes in their bodies that were previously unnoticed, including in terms of urinary and reproductive health. One important organ that is often overlooked is the prostate, a small, walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra, which functions to produce semen.
When to Check for Prostate Problems?
Although prostate problems are more commonly associated with older men, attention to prostate health should start earlier. Age 50 is the ideal time to start being aware of changes or disorders in this organ, especially since some conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia ( BPH ), prostatitis, and even prostate cancer can develop slowly without any noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
Know the Risk of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men, and the risk increases with age. However, men with a family history of prostate cancer—especially a father or brother—are at higher risk and are even advised to start screening earlier, at age 40.
Screening for prostate cancer usually involves two approaches: a digital rectal examination (DRE ) and measuring the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA ) in the blood. While not all elevated PSA levels indicate cancer, it is an important indicator that helps doctors evaluate whether further testing, such as a biopsy, is needed.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Aside from cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia is a very common condition and can start appearing as early as age 50, although symptoms may not be felt until later in life. Symptoms include:
- frequent urination especially at night
- Weak urine stream
- Feeling of incomplete voiding after urination
- Difficulty starting urination.
If left untreated, an enlarged prostate can lead to complications such as acute urinary retention or recurrent urinary tract infections. This is where it is important to have your prostate checked regularly, even when there are no symptoms.
Regular check-ups allow for early detection and more effective management, whether through lifestyle changes, medications, or medical interventions when necessary.
Prostate Inflammation
Another problem that is no less important is prostatitis, which is inflammation of the prostate that can be caused by bacterial or non-bacterial infections. This condition can cause pain when urinating, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction.
Although prostatitis can occur at any age, men aged 30–50 are also at risk. Therefore, prostate evaluation at age 50 is not only focused on cancer, but also to detect various other prostate disorders that can affect the comfort of daily life.
Get an Early Prostate Check
Making a prostate exam part of your routine health checkup in your 50s is a smart and proactive move. Just like checking your blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood sugar, your prostate health needs regular monitoring. Plus, many prostate problems are progressive, meaning the longer you leave them, the more complex they can become.
By doing early screening, men have a greater chance of preventing complications, getting simpler treatment, and maintaining quality of life in old age. Therefore, do not wait until disturbing symptoms arise to have your prostate checked. Consult with your doctor, especially a urologist, about when and how the examination should be performed according to your history and condition.
Article written by dr. Faisal Abdi Matondang, Sp.U (Urology Surgery Specialist Doctor, EMC Pulomas Hospital).