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PSA screening test
Prostate cancer is caused by cells in the prostate growing out of control. Every year about 50,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer. It's the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the UK. However, we can detect prostate cancer early with a prostate specific antigen test. The prostate gland is a walnut sized gland that lies just below your bladder. It has several functions: - It helps produce healthy sperm - It supports sexual function - It supports how you urinate Some forms of prostate cancer are very slow growing and don't cause symptoms, but other types are aggressive and spread very quickly. Your risk of prostate cancer increases if you: - Are over the age of 50 - Have a family history of prostate cancer - Are of black ethnic origin (you have double the risk) You should consider a PSA test if you belong to any of the above categories.
What's included in this PSA prostate blood test?
We’ll measure your PSA blood level. Your prostate normally produces small amounts of PSA, but in cancer much larger quantities are produced and released into the blood. As prostate cancer is more common in men over the age of 50, we’re more likely to detect higher levels of PSA above this age. Limitations of the PSA test: - You might have a raised PSA level but not have prostate cancer - The PSA test can miss cancer. A small proportion of men with a normal PSA may be diagnosed later with prostate cancer - More information can be found on the NHS guidance on PSA to testing and prostate cancer
Prostate specific antigen
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Frequently asked questions
This is a quick blood test so it should only take 10 - 15 minutes.
If you have a tendency to feel dizzy or faint with blood tests, make sure you drink plenty of fluids before the test. It's also worth bringing a bottle of water just in case.
You should avoid sex and vigorous exercise (e.g. cycling) for two days before you have your PSA blood test as these activities can increase your PSA levels. If you've had a recent prostate or bladder examination, or a prostate biopsy, please let us know as this can also affect your results.
Yes, this is a not fasting blood test which means you can eat and drink before you attend.
Our blood results usually take 1 - 3 working days.
All our tests are reviewed by our certified doctors and are shared with you through our secure online portal. If your PSA levels are elevated, please do not worry as this could be due to a number of things other than cancer (eg a urinary tract infection). We'll ask you to contact your GP for further assessment but if it’s urgent then we’ll call you, so please make sure you give us a contact number when you book your appointment.
Authors:
Dr Ravi Gowda, Consultant in Infectious Diseases and Travel Medicine
MBBS, MRCP(UK), DTM&H, MRCGP, DCH, DRCOG, DFFP
Caitlin Lancaster, BSc
Resources:
PSA testing and prostate cancer NHS
Prostate cancer Cancer Research UK