About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Risk depends on several factors, including age and race. For example, prostate cancer is most common in men over 65 and in Black men in the United States and the Caribbean.
Prostate cancer often does not cause symptoms in its early stages. That’s why prostate cancer screening is so important.
In the past, screening often involved a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE), which many men avoided due to discomfort or stigma. Today, the PSA test offers a simpler option.
What is PSA?
A PSA test (prostate-specific antigen test) is a simple blood test used to help screen for prostate cancer.
PSA is a protein made by the prostate gland. It’s normal to have some PSA in your blood. However, higher-than-normal levels can be a sign that something may be wrong.
A PSA test does not diagnose prostate cancer on its own. Instead, it helps doctors decide if more testing is needed.
What Do PSA Levels Mean?
PSA levels can vary based on age and other factors. In general, higher PSA levels may increase concern for prostate cancer, but they can also be caused by other conditions like inflammation or an enlarged prostate.
Typical PSA ranges by age according to the Cleveland Clinic:
- Ages 40–50: 0–2.5 ng/mL
- Ages 50–60: 2.5–3.5 ng/mL
- Ages 60–70: 3.5–4.5 ng/mL
- Ages 70–80: 4.5–5.5 ng/mL
Your doctor will interpret your PSA test results based on your overall health and risk factors.
When Should You Get a PSA Blood Test?
The right time to start PSA screening depends on your personal risk.
The American Cancer Society suggests:
- Starting at age 50 for men at average risk
- Starting at age 45 for men at higher risk (including Black men or those with a family history)
- Starting at age 40 for men at very high risk
How often you get tested depends on your PSA level:
- PSA below 2.5 ng/mL: every 2 years
- PSA 2.5 ng/mL or higher: yearly
Benefits and Risks of PSA Testing
The PSA blood test can help detect prostate cancer early, when it is easier to treat. However, it also has it’s risks.
For example:
- A high PSA level does not always mean cancer
- Some cancers found may grow so slowly they never cause harm
- False positives can lead to stress or unnecessary tests
Because of this, screening decisions should be made together with your healthcare provider.
Next Steps: Talk to Your Doctor
Deciding whether to get a PSA test is a personal choice. It depends on your age, family history, and overall health.
Talk to your doctor about your risk for prostate cancer, when to start screening, and how often to get tested. Having this conversation can help you make the best decision for your health.
Resources
Key Statistics for Prostate Cancer- American Cancer Society
Recommendations for Prostate Cancer Early Detection- American Cancer Society