PSA Test: Understanding Prostate Cancer Screening & Levels

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test

The PSA test is a blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in a man's blood. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. The PSA level in a man's blood can be elevated if he has prostate cancer, prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland), or an enlarged prostate.

PSA screening is the practice of having a healthy, or asymptomatic, man tested for the presence of prostate cancer using the PSA test. However, PSA screening can lead to false-positive results, which can lead to unnecessary biopsies.

According to the American Cancer Society, men should talk to their doctor about PSA screening starting at age 50. Men with a higher risk of prostate cancer, such as African-American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer, should consider starting screening earlier. The American Urological Association (AUA) also recommends that men talk to their doctor about prostate cancer screening starting at age 50, but the AUA does not recommend routine PSA screening for men who are at low risk of prostate cancer.

The decision to have a PSA test is a personal one that should be made after discussing the risks and benefits with a doctor.