PSA Screening Tests - Importance and Procedure

PSA screening tests are used to measure the levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. Elevated PSA levels could be an indication of prostate cancer or other prostate conditions.

PSA screening tests FAQ

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What is a PSA test?

The PSA (prostate specific antigen) test is a blood test that measures levels of PSA protein in the blood. Used with other tests it can help doctors diagnose prostate cancer. What is the PSA test? Who can have the PSA test? Is there a national screening programme for prostate cancer? What happens after the PSA test? What is the PSA test?

What is a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test?

The prostate specific antigen ( PSA) test is a blood test that can help diagnose prostate problems including prostate cancer. It is not a perfect test. It will miss some prostate cancers, will detect some that would never go on to cause harm and can show a raised PSA level when there is no prostate cancer present.

Can a PSA test be used to diagnose early prostate cancer?

The PSA test on its own is not accurate enough to be used in a screening programme to diagnose early prostate cancer. It may falsely diagnose prostate cancer and may also miss some cancers. Some studies show that lives may be saved by PSA screening because it may lead to prostate cancer being diagnosed at an early stage.

When can I get a PSA test?

You should be able to get PSA test from the age of 50. But if you have higher risk factors of prostate cancer you should be able to get it from 45 or younger. For example: if you have a family history of prostate cancer and breast cancer your risk is also higher. With both these risk factors prostate cancer may happen at an earlier age.

Can a PSA test tell if you have prostate cancer?

The PSA test is a blood test that can help suggest if you have prostate cancer. It measures the amount of a protein called prostate specific antigen (PSA). This protein is produced by both normal and cancerous prostate cells. A raised level of PSA may be a sign of cancer. But the test is not perfect.

Is PSA testing part of a national screening programme for prostate cancer?

PSA testing isn’t part of a national screening programme for prostate cancer. This is because we don’t know if the benefits of the test outweigh the risks. Instead, you can decide for yourself whether to have your PSA level checked once you are 50. This is called the Prostate Cancer Risk Management Programme.