Tue Aug 27 2024
Reading time : 4 mins
Have you ever wondered how the PSA test is connected to prostate cancer? The PSA test is commonly used for men experiencing prostate cancer symptoms. This screening process is essentially a type of prostate cancer test that detects PSA levels in your blood.
Read on to gain a comprehensive understanding of prostate cancer tests and their connection to your PSA levels.
PSA stands for prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by both healthy and malignant cells in the prostate gland of men. The primary purpose of the PSA test is to measure the levels of PSA in your bloodstream. To conduct the test, you will need to provide a blood sample to a laboratory. The results are measured in nanograms of PSA per millilitre of blood (ng/mL).
Research suggests that the PSA test can help monitor the presence or progression of prostate cancer in men. In fact, men over 50 can benefit from combining PSA tests with a digital rectal exam (DRE) for early detection of prostate cancer. Most healthcare providers recommend an annual PSA screening for men over 50.
The PSA test can detect not only prostate cancer but also other symptoms or conditions affecting prostate health. It is important to note that PSA levels can rise due to non-cancerous factors, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis.
Advancements in medical science and research have highlighted both the benefits and potential risks of PSA testing. Some healthcare professionals have raised concerns about the risks associated with routine PSA screening.
Additionally, factors such as family history or racial background may influence the risk of prostate cancer:
The interpretation of PSA test results has evolved over time. For example, PSA levels around 4.0 ng/mL were once considered normal. However, modern medical understanding recognises that PSA levels between 4.0 and 10.0 ng/mL do not always indicate prostate cancer. Conversely, men with PSA levels below 4.0 ng/mL may still develop prostate cancer.
Several factors can cause fluctuations in PSA levels, such as the size of the prostate gland, infections or inflammation, or the individual's age. Other factors, like vigorous exercise (e.g., cycling), ejaculation, or a prostate biopsy within two days of testing, can also elevate PSA levels.
In general, higher PSA levels are associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.
If an individual tests positive for elevated PSA levels but does not exhibit any symptoms of prostate cancer, the healthcare provider will typically recommend another PSA test for confirmation. If high PSA levels are detected again, a third test, often combined with a DRE, is usually recommended.
A continuous rise in PSA levels, along with the detection of suspicious lumps in the prostate, may indicate the growth of prostate cancer. In such cases, doctors may also recommend an MRI or high-resolution ultrasound to image the prostate. A prostate biopsy is currently the most accurate method for detecting prostate cancer. In cases where men have elevated PSA levels but no specific symptoms, doctors may prescribe antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
It is important to note that early detection of prostate cancer does not necessarily reduce the risk of the disease. PSA screening can identify small tumours in or around the prostate gland, but these tumours often grow slowly and are not generally life-threatening. However, over diagnosis or overtreatment of such tumours can worsen health conditions.
Overtreatment can lead to unnecessary complications, such as those resulting from radiation therapy or prostate surgery. These complications may include side effects related to sexual health, as well as gastrointestinal or urinary issues. Following radiation therapy, men may experience urinary leakage, incontinence, or increased frequency of urination. Erectile dysfunction, rectal bleeding, and loose stools are also potential side effects of overdiagnosis and treatment.
Furthermore, PSA tests can sometimes result in false positives. For example, some patients may have high PSA levels without having prostate cancer. False positives can cause anxiety and may lead to unnecessary and potentially harmful procedures, such as prostate biopsies.
Prostate cancer testing is crucial for maintaining prostate health in men, and PSA screening plays a key role in this. This blog has covered the purpose, procedure, and interpretation of PSA test results. While the PSA test is a valuable tool for monitoring prostate health and detecting potential cancer, it comes with both benefits and risks. Understanding your individual risk factors and discussing them with your healthcare provider is essential. MD.co.uk offers regular GP consultations to help you make informed decisions and manage your prostate health under the guidance of medical experts.
