Prostate specific antigen [PSA]is a protein produced by normal as well as malignant cells of the prostate gland in men .The blood level of PSA is often elevated in men with prostate cancer ,prostatitis[inflammation of the prostate] and benign prostatic hyperplasia[BPH] hence the use of digital rectal examination[DRE] in addition to PSA testing to help doctors determine the nature of the problem.
There is no specific normal or abnormal level of PSA in the blood and levels may vary overtime in the same man.
Earlier a PSA level of 4.0ng/ml and lower was considered normal but recent studies have shown that some men with PSA levels below 4.0ng/ml have prostate cancer and that many men with higher levels do not have prostate cancer.
PSA level rises in
.Prostatitis
.UTI[Urinary tract infection]
.Prostate biopsies and prostate surgery.
.BPH[Benign prostatic hyperplasia]
The higher a man’s PSA level, the more likely it is that he has prostate cancer, a continuous rise in a man’s PSA level overtime may also be a sign of prostate cancer.
Why do l need PSA test?
You may get a PSA test if you have certain risk factors for prostate cancer which includes
.A father or brother with prostate cancer.
.Being African-American.
Your age : Prostate cancer is more common in men over the age of 50
.Symptoms such as painful or frequent urination ,and pelvic and/ or back pain
.Confirmed diagnosis of prostate cancer to monitor the effects of treatment.
Preparation for PSA test;
.Avoid having sex or masturbating for 24hrs before your PSA test as releasing semen can raise your PSA levels.
.Avoid invasive surgica l procedures ,bouginage ,urethral catheterisation and manipulative procedures.
.Avoid bicycling or riding a bike before test
.Avoid statins[lipid –lowering drugs],finasteride[for BPH]
.Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen.
Get a PSA test done today.
For more enquiries/questions/call +2348178929723.