The Body of Evidence 176 – Prostate Cancer Update
Mar 19, 2026
An accessible tour of prostate anatomy and why cancers in certain locations get missed. A clear look at PSA testing limits and how MRI is changing detection. Practical comparisons of biopsy techniques, surgery, radiation and active surveillance. Discussion of trial evidence and matching treatment intensity to tumor risk and patient age.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Digital Rectal Exam Misses Front Prostate Tumors
- Digital rectal exam only assesses the back side of the prostate, so it misses tumors located on the front.
- Christopher Labos explains that relying on a finger exam historically missed about a quarter of nodules because you can't feel the anterior prostate.
Repeat Elevated PSA Before Jumping To Biopsy
- Do not interpret one elevated PSA as definitive proof of cancer; repeat testing before invasive workup.
- Christopher Labos recommends rechecking PSA and considering temporary causes like infection or medications before biopsy.
Prostate Feel Compared To Thumb Base Pad
- Christopher Labos shares a tactile teaching: the prostate feels like the pad at the base of your thumb and a cancer nodule like a knuckle.
- The specific sensory comparison came from medical school anatomy demonstrations.