Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, which can be effectively treated with timely diagnosis. Kausar Specialized Laboratory in Mashhad provides comprehensive services for the diagnosis of this disease by using advanced equipment and experienced staff. In this article, we will review prostate cancer, related diagnostic tests and Kosar laboratory services in this field. Getting to Know Prostate Cancer Prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably. The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system that produces a fluid that forms part of the semen. This gland is located under the bladder and in front of the rectum 4. There are different types of prostate cancer, but the most common type is adenocarcinoma, which originates from prostate gland cells. Other rare types include small cell carcinoma, neuroendocrine tumors, transitional cell carcinoma, and sarcomas. Risk factors and prevention methods ### Major risk factors: - **Age**: The risk increases with age, especially after 50 years. - **Family history**: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer doubles the risk. - **Race**: African-American men are more at risk. - **Genetic mutations**: Mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2 and some other genes increase the risk 4. ### Methods of prevention: There is no surefire way to prevent prostate cancer, but following some steps can reduce the risk: - Maintaining a healthy weight - Regular physical activity - Healthy diet (decreasing fat consumption and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption) - Avoiding smoking and alcohol 4. Tests to diagnose prostate cancer ### PSA test (prostate specific antigen): This test measures the level of PSA in the blood. PSA is a protein produced by prostate cells. A high PSA level may indicate prostate cancer, but benign conditions such as prostatitis or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can also cause an elevated PSA. ### DRE (DRE): In this examination, the doctor examines the rectum with his finger to check for any abnormality in the prostate. ### Complementary tests: If PSA or DRE test results are abnormal, further tests such as **prostate biopsy**, **MRI imaging** or **genetic tests** may be recommended 4. The following table summarizes the main tests: Kowsar specialized laboratory services **Kawsar Specialized Laboratory** in Mashhad, located on Vakil Abad Blvd., provides comprehensive services for prostate cancer diagnosis 5. Some of the services of this laboratory include: - **PSA test** with high accuracy - **Expert consultation** before and after the test - **Sampling at home** for people with limited mobility - **Genetic tests** to assess the risk of prostate cancer in people with a family history ### Special features: - Using **advanced** laboratory equipment - **Experienced staff** and experts in the field of pathology and diagnostic tests - **online response** test results . How to take turns and prepare before the test ### Preparation before the test: - **Fasting**: PSA testing usually does not require fasting, but other tests may require 8-12 hours of fasting. - **Avoidance of specific activities**: 24 hours before the test, avoid intense physical activities and sexual intercourse. - **Medications**: Consult your doctor about taking your medications, as some medications, such as finasteride, may affect the test results. > Kausar Pathobiology Specialized Laboratory, proud to obtain ISO 15189, ISO 10002 and ISO 9001 of the European Union, under the supervision of Dr. Ali Ayatollahi, an anatomical and clinical pathology specialist, covers more than a thousand cases of various tests in the fields of pathology, genetics and clinical. (Contract party of basic insurances and most supplementary insurances) Also, genetic counseling is provided free of charge in this center by experts.* > > *Address: Mashhad - Vakilabad - Kausar Blvd. - between 2 and 4 Kausar - Farabi Doctors Building - negative one floor. Contact numbers: 051-38840404 and 051-38820202 and 09028840404* > > **Kowsar specialized laboratory, having the equipment and experienced personnel, is able to perform sampling services at home in Mashhad.**