Your PSA Number Could Save Your Life – Do You Know Your PSA Level?
Know your PSA level and monitor for rapid increases because rapid increases–even in the 'normal' range–can signal cancer.
Your PSA Number Could Save Your Life – Do You Know Your PSA Level?
Know your PSA level and monitor for rapid increases because rapid increases–even in the 'normal' range–can signal cancer.
Your PSA Number Could Save Your Life – Do You Know Your PSA Level?
Know your PSA level and monitor for rapid increases because rapid increases–even in the 'normal' range–can signal cancer.
Most men don't know their PSA number, don't understand what it means, and don't know the right questions to ask their doctors. Don't fly blind with your most important health decision.
Most men don't know their PSA number, don't understand what it means, and don't know the right questions to ask their doctors. Don't fly blind with your most important health decision.
Hi, I'm Joe Dooley.
Hi, I'm Joe Dooley.
Hi, I'm Joe Dooley.
I am surviving advanced prostate cancer not because I am lucky, but because I learned to navigate the healthcare system like my life depends on it – because it does. Now I teach other men how to do the same.
I am surviving advanced prostate cancer not because I am lucky, but because I learned to navigate the healthcare system like my life depends on it – because it does. Now I teach other men how to do the same.
Picture yourself as the man who catches problems early, advocates effectively for his health, and has the peace of mind that comes from being informed and proactive.
Picture yourself as the man who catches problems early, advocates effectively for his health, and has the peace of mind that comes from being informed and proactive.
Joe’s Journey from Diagnosis to Advocacy
Did you know one out of eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer? Neither did I, until it happened to me.
My name is Joe Dooley. I'm 65 years old, living in the north suburbs of Chicago, and I'm a prostate cancer patient in remission from advanced metastatic disease. Like most men, I thought "normal" PSA test results meant I was fine. I didn't even know what PSA stood for and I didn't know how important it is to track PSA levels over time.
That ignorance nearly cost me my life.
When my PSA levels started increasing—even though they were still "normal"—I didn't ask questions. When I was offered "active surveillance" instead of immediate treatment, I thought I could wait.
When delays pushed my diagnosis back months, I didn't push back.
I was wrong.
By the time I acted, my cancer had metastasized. What could have been a routine prostatectomy became a complex battle against advanced disease involving radiation hormone therapy and ongoing treatment at Mayo Clinic.
Here's the truth: metastatic prostate cancer is still considered incurable today. But early detection? That changes everything.
The information I've learned and shared with friends has already saved lives through early diagnosis. What I share could save yours too.
My name is Joe Dooley. I'm 65 years old, living in the north suburbs of Chicago, and I'm a prostate cancer patient in remission from advanced metastatic disease. Like most men, I thought "normal" PSA test results meant I was fine. I didn't even know what PSA stood for and I didn't know how important it is to track PSA levels over time.
That ignorance nearly cost me my life.
When my PSA levels started increasing—even though they were still "normal"—I didn't ask questions. When I was offered "active surveillance" instead of immediate treatment, I thought I could wait.
When delays pushed my diagnosis back months, I didn't push back.
I was wrong.
By the time I acted, my cancer had metastasized. What could have been a routine prostatectomy became a complex battle against advanced disease involving radiation hormone therapy and ongoing treatment at Mayo Clinic.
Here's the truth: metastatic prostate cancer is still considered incurable today. But early detection? That changes everything.
The information I've learned and shared with friends has already saved lives through early diagnosis. What I share could save yours too.
Every year in the United States, approximately 275,000-315,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, and we lose 35,000 men to this disease. Most of these deaths could be prevented with early detection.
Critical Knowledge Gaps
Critical Knowledge Gaps
Addressing why most men don't know their PSA numbers—and how this single piece of information could literally save their lives.
Addressing why most men don't know their PSA numbers—and how this single piece of information could literally save their lives.
Patient Perspective
Patient Perspective
Real experience navigating metastatic disease, PSMA scans, targeted radiation, hormone therapy and ongoing monitoring and treatment at Mayo Clinic —providing hope and practical wisdom for others facing health challenges.
Systemic Change
Systemic Change
Creating workplace and community cultures where men's health conversations become normalized and early detection and treatment becomes the new focus.
Creating workplace and community cultures where men's health conversations become normalized and early detection and treatment becomes the new focus.
Book Joe for Nov 2025
Book Joe for Nov 2025
Reserve a life-saving keynote
Reserve a life-saving keynote
Reserve a life-saving keynote
See Speaking Topics
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the chances of getting prostate cancer in your lifetime?
One out of eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. For Black men, this statistic is even higher at one out of four. I have to tell you, these are statistics I didn't know until it happened to me. In the United States, approximately 275,000 to 315,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, and sadly, we lose about 35,000 men annually to this disease.
How does family history affect prostate cancer risk?
If you have prostate cancer on your paternal line - your grandfather, father, father's brother (uncle), or brother - you have two and a half times greater risk of developing prostate cancer. You also have an increased risk of getting prostate cancer between ages 40-45. Additionally, if your mother or sister had breast cancer before age 60 or you have the BRCA gene, you have an increased risk for prostate cancer as well. This is information every man needs to know about his personal risk.
What exactly is the prostate and what does it do?
The prostate is part of your reproductive system - a walnut-sized gland that produces seminal fluid. When you ejaculate, the prostate pushes this fluid into the urethra so sperm can travel down to complete reproduction. I have to admit, when I first got diagnosed, I didn't know really what it was or what it did. Understanding your prostate's function is the first step in prostate cancer awareness.
What is a PSA test and why is it important for men's health?
A PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test measures a protein produced by your prostate gland. If there's one takeaway from everything I've learned, it's this: you need to know your PSA number, be on top of it, and watch for any increases from one test to the next. Even if your doctor tells you your PSA level is normal, any increase should be concerning and requires follow-up.
What should my PSA level be at age 50 and other ages?
While PSA levels vary by individual and age, the most important thing is tracking changes over time rather than focusing on a single number. As a guideline I can refer you to the Cleveland Clinic’s chart on PSA levels considered to be abnormal. Age 40 to 50-above 2.5 ng/ml; Age 50 to 60-above 3.5 ng/ml; Age 60 to 70-above 4.5 ng/ml and Age 70 to 80-above 5.5 ng/ml. Again, the most important number to consider is whether you experience a rapid increase from one annual (or more frequent) test to the next. Your vigilance should be triggered once you reach a PSA level of 2.5 at any age. Watch for rapid and/or significant increases and discuss these changes with your doctor. He or she will likely recommend more frequent PSA tests and/ or an additional PSA test to test your free PSA level which can assist in diagnosing whether the change is suspicious for cancer which requires follow testing by MRI and biopsy.
How often should men get PSA testing for prostate cancer screening?
PSA test frequency should be discussed with your healthcare provider based on your age and risk factors. From my patient advocacy experience, I emphasize the importance of regular monitoring, especially if you have family history or other risk factors. My story demonstrates how consistent PSA tracking helped detect my cancer recurrence at the smallest possible level.
What are the early warning signs of prostate cancer that men miss?
Many men with early prostate cancer have no symptoms at all, which is why PSA testing and regular screening are crucial. My experience as a prostate cancer patient shows that by the time symptoms appear, the cancer may have already progressed. This is why I advocate so strongly for preventive screening and knowing your PSA numbers.
What happens during a prostate biopsy procedure?
During a prostate biopsy, the urologist uses an ultrasound-guided instrument inserted through the rectum. The prostate is numbed with lidocaine, and tissue samples are taken from multiple areas. In my case, the doctor took 16 biopsy tissue samples. The procedure can be uncomfortable, but it's essential for accurate diagnosis. Here's something I want to tell you that doctors don't always mention: blood in your ejaculate after biopsy is normal and expected.
What does a Gleason score mean for prostate cancer patients?
The Gleason Score grades prostate cancer cells from 6 to 10 based on how they look under a microscope. Gleason 6 is low-risk, non-aggressive prostate cancer. Gleason 7 is intermediate risk, and Gleason 8-10 are high-risk. My first biopsy showed Gleason 6, but my second biopsy revealed Gleason 7 intermediate risk cancer, which led to my prostatectomy recommendation.
What is a PSMA scan and how does it help find prostate cancer?
A PSMA scan is advanced imaging technology that can detect very small prostate cancer tumors. My experience at Mayo Clinic shows how this scan found my recurrent tumor when it was "the size of a pinky fingernail." My doctor told me I had "the smallest tumor he'd ever treated" among over 8,000 patients, demonstrating the power of early detection through advanced scanning.
How can I better advocate for myself during prostate cancer treatment?
From my patient advocacy experience, I've learned the importance of staying informed about your PSA numbers, asking questions during appointments, and not accepting delays in care. When my biopsy was postponed from June to August, I should have insisted on the original timeline. My message: be proactive about your healthcare and don't let scheduling convenience delay potentially life-saving procedures.
What questions should I ask my doctor about prostate cancer screening?
Key questions include: What is my current PSA level? How does it compare to previous tests? What is my personal risk based on family history? When should I have my next PSA test? If there's an increase, what are the next steps? My experience shows that patient education and engagement with your healthcare provider are crucial for early detection.
Can you live a normal life with metastatic prostate cancer?
Yes, many men with metastatic prostate cancer live their full life expectancy with proper treatment. I am currently in remission after treatment for metastatic disease. However, I want to emphasize that metastatic prostate cancer requires ongoing medical treatment and monitoring. The goal is preventing progression to metastatic disease through early detection and treatment.
What does it mean to be in remission from prostate cancer?
Being in remission means cancer is undetectable or controlled through treatment. I am currently in remission after radiation therapy targeted at my small metastatic tumor. However, we prostate cancer patients require ongoing PSA monitoring even in remission, as cancer can recur. My experience shows the importance of continued vigilance and regular testing.
What advice do you have for newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients?
My patient advice for newly diagnosed men: educate yourself about your specific cancer, understand your PSA numbers, don't delay recommended treatments, and remember that many treatment options exist today. Most importantly, understand that metastatic prostate cancer is still considered an incurable disease today, making early detection and treatment crucial for the best outcomes.
What are the chances of getting prostate cancer in your lifetime?
One out of eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. For Black men, this statistic is even higher at one out of four. I have to tell you, these are statistics I didn't know until it happened to me. In the United States, approximately 275,000 to 315,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, and sadly, we lose about 35,000 men annually to this disease.
How does family history affect prostate cancer risk?
If you have prostate cancer on your paternal line - your grandfather, father, father's brother (uncle), or brother - you have two and a half times greater risk of developing prostate cancer. You also have an increased risk of getting prostate cancer between ages 40-45. Additionally, if your mother or sister had breast cancer before age 60 or you have the BRCA gene, you have an increased risk for prostate cancer as well. This is information every man needs to know about his personal risk.
What exactly is the prostate and what does it do?
The prostate is part of your reproductive system - a walnut-sized gland that produces seminal fluid. When you ejaculate, the prostate pushes this fluid into the urethra so sperm can travel down to complete reproduction. I have to admit, when I first got diagnosed, I didn't know really what it was or what it did. Understanding your prostate's function is the first step in prostate cancer awareness.
What is a PSA test and why is it important for men's health?
A PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test measures a protein produced by your prostate gland. If there's one takeaway from everything I've learned, it's this: you need to know your PSA number, be on top of it, and watch for any increases from one test to the next. Even if your doctor tells you your PSA level is normal, any increase should be concerning and requires follow-up.
What should my PSA level be at age 50 and other ages?
While PSA levels vary by individual and age, the most important thing is tracking changes over time rather than focusing on a single number. As a guideline I can refer you to the Cleveland Clinic’s chart on PSA levels considered to be abnormal. Age 40 to 50-above 2.5 ng/ml; Age 50 to 60-above 3.5 ng/ml; Age 60 to 70-above 4.5 ng/ml and Age 70 to 80-above 5.5 ng/ml. Again, the most important number to consider is whether you experience a rapid increase from one annual (or more frequent) test to the next. Your vigilance should be triggered once you reach a PSA level of 2.5 at any age. Watch for rapid and/or significant increases and discuss these changes with your doctor. He or she will likely recommend more frequent PSA tests and/ or an additional PSA test to test your free PSA level which can assist in diagnosing whether the change is suspicious for cancer which requires follow testing by MRI and biopsy.
How often should men get PSA testing for prostate cancer screening?
PSA test frequency should be discussed with your healthcare provider based on your age and risk factors. From my patient advocacy experience, I emphasize the importance of regular monitoring, especially if you have family history or other risk factors. My story demonstrates how consistent PSA tracking helped detect my cancer recurrence at the smallest possible level.
What are the early warning signs of prostate cancer that men miss?
Many men with early prostate cancer have no symptoms at all, which is why PSA testing and regular screening are crucial. My experience as a prostate cancer patient shows that by the time symptoms appear, the cancer may have already progressed. This is why I advocate so strongly for preventive screening and knowing your PSA numbers.
What happens during a prostate biopsy procedure?
During a prostate biopsy, the urologist uses an ultrasound-guided instrument inserted through the rectum. The prostate is numbed with lidocaine, and tissue samples are taken from multiple areas. In my case, the doctor took 16 biopsy tissue samples. The procedure can be uncomfortable, but it's essential for accurate diagnosis. Here's something I want to tell you that doctors don't always mention: blood in your ejaculate after biopsy is normal and expected.
What does a Gleason score mean for prostate cancer patients?
The Gleason Score grades prostate cancer cells from 6 to 10 based on how they look under a microscope. Gleason 6 is low-risk, non-aggressive prostate cancer. Gleason 7 is intermediate risk, and Gleason 8-10 are high-risk. My first biopsy showed Gleason 6, but my second biopsy revealed Gleason 7 intermediate risk cancer, which led to my prostatectomy recommendation.
What is a PSMA scan and how does it help find prostate cancer?
A PSMA scan is advanced imaging technology that can detect very small prostate cancer tumors. My experience at Mayo Clinic shows how this scan found my recurrent tumor when it was "the size of a pinky fingernail." My doctor told me I had "the smallest tumor he'd ever treated" among over 8,000 patients, demonstrating the power of early detection through advanced scanning.
How can I better advocate for myself during prostate cancer treatment?
From my patient advocacy experience, I've learned the importance of staying informed about your PSA numbers, asking questions during appointments, and not accepting delays in care. When my biopsy was postponed from June to August, I should have insisted on the original timeline. My message: be proactive about your healthcare and don't let scheduling convenience delay potentially life-saving procedures.
What questions should I ask my doctor about prostate cancer screening?
Key questions include: What is my current PSA level? How does it compare to previous tests? What is my personal risk based on family history? When should I have my next PSA test? If there's an increase, what are the next steps? My experience shows that patient education and engagement with your healthcare provider are crucial for early detection.
Can you live a normal life with metastatic prostate cancer?
Yes, many men with metastatic prostate cancer live their full life expectancy with proper treatment. I am currently in remission after treatment for metastatic disease. However, I want to emphasize that metastatic prostate cancer requires ongoing medical treatment and monitoring. The goal is preventing progression to metastatic disease through early detection and treatment.
What does it mean to be in remission from prostate cancer?
Being in remission means cancer is undetectable or controlled through treatment. I am currently in remission after radiation therapy targeted at my small metastatic tumor. However, we prostate cancer patients require ongoing PSA monitoring even in remission, as cancer can recur. My experience shows the importance of continued vigilance and regular testing.
What advice do you have for newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients?
My patient advice for newly diagnosed men: educate yourself about your specific cancer, understand your PSA numbers, don't delay recommended treatments, and remember that many treatment options exist today. Most importantly, understand that metastatic prostate cancer is still considered an incurable disease today, making early detection and treatment crucial for the best outcomes.
Watch Joe Speak
Watch Joe Speak
