Prostate cancer blood test — these words have taken on new importance in the UAE after US President Joe Biden revealed he had a form of skin cancer. While Biden’s diagnosis was not related to prostate cancer, UAE doctors are using this moment to stress the importance of regular health checkups, especially for men over 50.
Doctors say a simple prostate cancer blood test could help detect problems early. Early detection can make treatment easier and more successful. With growing awareness about men’s health, the message is clear: don’t wait, get tested.
What Is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer happens in the prostate, a small gland in men that helps make semen. It’s one of the most common types of cancer among men, especially those over 50. The cancer grows slowly in many cases and may not show symptoms in the early stages. However, when left untreated, it can become dangerous.
Doctors say the best way to fight prostate cancer is through early detection — and this can start with a prostate cancer blood test, known as the PSA test.
Why Joe Biden’s Diagnosis Is a Wake-Up Call
Although President Biden was diagnosed with a different form of cancer, the news has sparked fresh interest in men’s health. Health experts in the UAE say this is the right time to talk about the need for regular health checks, including screenings for prostate cancer.
Dr. Adel Al Sayed, a leading oncologist in Dubai, said, “Joe Biden’s case reminds us that cancer can affect anyone. Men, especially those above 50, should not ignore routine checkups. A simple blood test can save your life.”
What Is the Prostate Cancer Blood Test?
The prostate cancer blood test, also called the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test, measures the level of PSA in your blood. Higher levels can be a sign of prostate cancer or other problems in the prostate gland.
Doctors in the UAE recommend men above 50 — or those with a family history of cancer — to get tested once a year. In some cases, younger men with risk factors may also need screening.
Key points about the PSA test:
- It’s a simple blood test.
- No special preparation is needed.
- Results can help detect cancer early.
- It can also track changes in the prostate over time.
Who Should Take the Prostate Cancer Blood Test?
Doctors recommend the test for:
- Men aged 50 or older
- Men aged 40+ with a family history of prostate cancer
- Men with symptoms like trouble urinating or pelvic pain
- Those looking for peace of mind through regular health monitoring
Dr. Rami Khalil, a general physician based in Abu Dhabi, explains, “The problem is not that men don’t care. It’s often that they’re not aware. If more people knew about the benefits of the prostate cancer blood test, lives could be saved.”
What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?
In many cases, there are no symptoms in the early stages. That’s why a blood test is so important. But as the disease develops, some warning signs may appear:
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs
Even if you don’t have symptoms, doctors still recommend screening — especially if you are over 50 or have a family history of prostate problems.
How Common Is Prostate Cancer in the UAE?
Prostate cancer is one of the top five cancers among men in the UAE. The country has been improving its healthcare system, but experts say public awareness is still low.
“Men are less likely to go for routine checkups compared to women,” says Dr. Noura Hassan, a health researcher in Dubai. “That needs to change. Early detection through something as simple as a prostate cancer blood test can make a huge difference.”
How Early Detection Can Save Lives
When caught early, prostate cancer is highly treatable. Options may include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone treatments, or even active monitoring in low-risk cases.
Without early detection, however, the disease can spread to other parts of the body — including bones and lymph nodes — making it more difficult to treat.
Dr. Al Sayed adds, “The goal is not just to treat cancer but to catch it before it becomes serious. And that starts with the PSA test.”
What Can You Do Today?
If you’re a man over 50 — or even in your 40s with a family history of cancer — take action now:
- Book an appointment with your doctor.
- Ask about the prostate cancer blood test.
- Talk to your loved ones about the importance of screening.
- Don’t wait for symptoms to show.
Healthcare centers in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and other emirates offer PSA testing. Some clinics even include it in health packages or annual checkups.
The Future of Men’s Health in the UAE
The UAE government is working hard to build a healthy future. Campaigns like the Men’s Health Awareness Month and Free Screening Days are helping people understand the importance of early testing.
But awareness alone is not enough. Experts say what’s needed is action — regular testing, open conversations, and better education on male health issues.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait, Get Tested
Joe Biden’s diagnosis may not be about prostate cancer, but it has given doctors around the world a chance to talk about serious men’s health issues. In the UAE, that means pushing for more men to take the prostate cancer blood test.
It’s fast. It’s simple. And it might save your life.
If you or someone you know is at risk, talk to a doctor today.
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