Men’s Health Week is a crucial time to focus on the health and well-being of men, encouraging them to take proactive steps towards a healthier life. Whether through education, awareness, or direct action, everyone can contribute to this important cause.

In this blog we look at Prostate-Specific Antigen testing

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) testing is a blood test used to screen for prostate cancer and monitor prostate health. PSA is a protein produced by prostate gland cells, and elevated levels in the blood can indicate prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostatitis.

Purpose and Benefits

PSA testing helps detect prostate cancer early, often before symptoms appear, improving treatment outcomes. It’s also used to monitor men diagnosed with prostate cancer, tracking the effectiveness of treatments and checking for recurrence.

Interpretation

  • Normal Range: Generally, PSA levels below 4.0 ng/mL are considered normal, though this varies with age and risk factors.
  • Elevated PSA: Levels above the normal range warrant further investigation, such as a digital rectal exam (DRE), imaging, or a prostate biopsy, to determine the cause.

Factors Affecting PSA Levels

Age, prostate enlargement, inflammation, recent medical procedures, and certain medications can affect PSA levels.

Recommendations and Considerations

Guidelines for PSA testing vary. The American Cancer Society recommends men discuss PSA screening with their healthcare provider starting at age 50, or earlier for high-risk groups. The US Preventive Services Task Force suggests individualised decisions for men aged 55-69. Routine screening is generally not recommended for men over 70.

Conclusion

PSA testing is a useful tool for early detection and management of prostate cancer, but it requires careful consideration of its benefits and limitations. Men should discuss with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions based on individual risk factors.

If you are concerned about anything or need advice then please do contact us here.