Digital Prostate Exam Accuracy

The digital rectal exam for prostate cancer is among the least favorite of all medical exams. Happily, it may be on the way out because other tests are more accurate in detecting the disease. According to UPI, a large review of medical data by researchers at Wake Forest University found digital rectal exams gave false positives and often turned men off to any type of test for prostate cancer. Digital rectal exams have long been a standard method for prostate cancer testing. However, an enlarged prostate does not necessarily indicate cancer or a requirement for more testing if the prostate is enlarged. Urologist and researcher Dr. Ryan Terlecki said, "The evidence suggests that in most cases, it is time to abandon the digital rectal exam." He added, "Our findings will likely be welcomed by patients and doctors alike."