Prostate Cancer Awareness: Why Men Should Know About the PSA Test
Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men, yet in its early stages it may not cause clear symptoms. This is why awareness, prevention, and regular conversations with a doctor are important, especially as men get older or if they have a higher risk.
One simple blood test that can support prostate health monitoring is the PSA test.
What is a PSA test?
PSA stands for Prostate-Specific Antigen. It is a protein produced mainly by the prostate gland and can be measured through a simple blood test.
The PSA test does not diagnose prostate cancer on its own. However, it can provide useful information about prostate health and may help indicate whether further medical assessment is needed.
Higher PSA levels may be linked to prostate cancer, but they can also be caused by other prostate conditions, such as an enlarged prostate or inflammation.
Why is Prostate Cancer Awareness important?
Prostate cancer can develop slowly and may not cause symptoms at first. Some men may only notice changes later, such as:
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Needing to urinate more often, especially at night
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Pain or discomfort when urinating
- Blood in the urine or semen
These symptoms do not always mean prostate cancer, but they should be discussed with a doctor.
Who should consider a PSA test?
There is no single answer that applies to every man. The decision to have a PSA test depends on age, symptoms, family history, personal risk factors and medical advice.
European Association of Urology guidance supports discussing early PSA testing with well-informed men:
- From age 50 for those without additional risk factors.
- From age 45 for men of African descent or those with a family history, particularly when a relative was diagnosed before 60.
- From age 40, men with a known BRCA2 mutation or a strong family history of prostate cancer may consider a baseline PSA test.
Your personal doctor or urologist can help you understand whether PSA testing is appropriate for you and how often it should be repeated.
Preparing for a PSA test
A PSA test is carried out with a simple blood sample. To help ensure an accurate result, avoid ejaculation, cycling and vigorous exercise for 48 hours before your PSA test. These activities can temporarily raise PSA levels.
Before testing, inform our laboratory team about any recent urinary infection, prostate-related procedure or medication you take.
If you have recently had a urinary infection or prostate-related procedure, speak with your doctor before booking, as testing may need to be postponed.
Fasting is not required for a PSA test alone. If you are having other blood tests at the same time, follow the preparation instructions for those tests.
What happens after a raised result?
A raised result does not automatically mean cancer or require an immediate biopsy. Depending on the circumstances, your doctor may recommend repeating the PSA test, assessing possible non-cancerous causes, or referring you to a urologist. Further assessment may include MRI scan and, when indicated, a biopsy.
Early detection can make a difference
When prostate cancer is found early, there may be more options for monitoring and treatment. A PSA test can be one useful tool in a wider prostate health assessment, especially when combined with medical history, symptoms, physical examination and, where needed, further diagnostic tests.
PSA testing during November
Throughout November, PSA testing is available at a reduced price at our blood collection points, as part of our effort to support prostate cancer awareness and early detection.
If you are unsure whether you should have a PSA test, speak with your personal doctor or urologist to understand what is right for you.
Always discuss your result and any follow-up needed with your personal doctor or urologist.
