Final answer:
Palpation of the prostate is performed through a digital rectal exam (DRE) where a physician feels the prostate gland via the rectum to check for any anomalies. This is often part of screening for prostate cancer, which can also involve a PSA blood test and potentially, a biopsy for definitive diagnosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Palpation of the prostate is a common part of a physical examination to check for male health issues, including prostate cancer. To palpate the prostate, a physician performs a digital rectal exam (DRE). During this procedure, the doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland which is located just in front of the rectum. This allows the physician to assess the size, shape, and texture of the gland and to detect any irregularities or lumps that might suggest the presence of prostate cancer or other conditions.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in males. While some forms of prostate cancer grow slowly and may not require immediate treatment, others can be more aggressive and lead to metastasis. Elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood can be an indicator of prostate cancer, amongst other conditions, necessitating further examination through imaging technologies like ultrasound or MRI, and ultimately, a biopsy for a definitive diagnosis.