Have a prostate? Aged 40+ years? It might be time for a prostate check

September 30, 2025

Prostate checks are important for early detection of prostate cancer | mate pukupuku repe tātea

Some info on prostate cancer in Aotearoa...

One of our most commonly diagnosed cancers - over 4,000 new cases diagnosed per year
Our 3rd deadliest cancer (after lung and bowel cancers)
More than 700 people die every year from prostate cancer
1 in 8 people assigned male at birth (cis men, trans women, some non-binary people, etc) will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime
Often symptom-less until it has already reached a serious stage
Earlier detection = more treatment options

Who should have prostate checks and when?

Prostate checks are important for all people with a prostate
- This includes most people assigned male at birth (e.g. cis men, trans women, some non-binary people, and some intersex people)
The age at which regular checks are recommended for you will vary depending on your family history
Your practitioner will let you know what tests are recommended and how regularly you should have checks
Your practitioner will let you know when you no longer need to have regular prostate checks (usually after about age 70)

Have a known family history of prostate cancer?

You should start talking to your GP or NP about prostate checks from age 40 years.

No known family history of prostate cancer?

You should start talking to your GP or NP about prostate checks from age 50 years.

Have symptoms of prostate cancer?

Book an appointment with your GP or NP for assessment.

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

Symptoms of prostate cancer can also be common in other non-cancerous conditions - but it's always best to have an assessment with your GP or NP to be sure.

Symptoms may include the following:

Frequent or sudden need to urinate (especially at night)
Difficulty urinating
Discomfort when urinating
Blood in your urine or semen
Pain in lower back, upper thighs, or hips
Bone pain
Unexpected weight loss

What does a prostate check involve?

There are two tests your GP or NP may suggest in a prostate check.

1) Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test

A lot of factors can affect your PSA level, so a higher level doesn't necessarily mean prostate cancer.
If your PSA result comes back high, your GP or NP will let you know if further tests are recommended.

2) Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)

This involves your GP or NP inserting a gloved and lubricated finger into your rectum to feel the size and shape of your prostate and check for any abnormalities.
While this examination can be uncomfortable, it can help to put it in perspective: a few moments of discomfort could help to save you from potentially life-threatening cancer.