At what age should men begin to have a rectal examination and a PSA blood test performed yearly?

Men should begin having a rectal examination and PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test yearly starting at age 50. This recommendation is based on guidelines from various health organizations that suggest routine screening for prostate cancer begins at this age for average-risk men. Prostate cancer risk increases with age, and beginning regular screenings at 50 helps with early detection, which is key for effective treatment should prostate cancer be diagnosed.

For men who are at higher risk, such as those with a family history of prostate cancer or African American men, discussions about screening may start earlier, often around age 45. However, the general guideline for average-risk individuals stands firm at age 50, which is why this is the correct answer.