Prostate Specific Antigen - Screening for Cancer

PSA testing is a laboratory analysis that measures a substance produced by the prostate gland called Prostate Specific Antigen. PSA testing is an aid in the detection of small tumors and prostate cancer. 

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer found in men in the United States. It occurs in about 1 out of 10 men. The good news is that prostate cancer may be cured if it is diagnosed early enough.

The PSA blood test can measure small amounts of PSA in the bloodstream. While elevated levels of PSA do no harm, they are an important signal of possible prostate disease. The American Cancer Society recommends PSA testing and digital rectal examination (DRE) yearly for men beginning at age 50, and for younger men who are at high risk.

Although the PSA blood test is not perfect, it is the best test currently available for early detection of prostate cancer. Most cases of early prostate cancer cause no symptoms and are found by a PSA blood test and/or DRE.  The development and availability of new tests are on the horizon in the near future for screening prostate cancer. 

For best signs of early detection, testing is recommended for baseline PSA at age 45.  This helps develop a trend line over time.  An increase in PSA would indicate further testing may be needed.

For additional information on PSA testing and prostate cancer, including risk factors, prevention and treatment, please visit the American Cancer Society webpage.