To screen or not to screen: Navigating prostate cancer testing and care

In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Our guests— Richard Pullen, EdD, RN and Virginia Holter, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC—join us to clear up the confusion around PSA testing, the role of digital rectal exams, and how new imaging technologies are changing the way we detect prostate cancer. We explore the risk factors that matter most, from age and race to genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and 2, obesity, and even environmental exposures. You’ll also hear about the complex decisions patients and physicians face together—from whether or not to get screened, to navigating treatment options such as active surveillance, prostatectomy, or high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation. Importantly, we tackle some often-overlooked topics, including impacts on sexual function and prostate cancer in transgender women. If you’re over 40, have a loved one at risk, or just want to understand the science and policy behind one of the most common cancers in men—this episode is a must-listen.