The Importance of Regular PSA Tests for Early Detection of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is extremely prevalent, affecting as many men proportionately as breast cancer affects women. Fortunately, when caught early, prostate cancer is highly treatable in most cases — and some men may not even require treatment for prostate cancer. Without question, the most convenient and effective tool available today for the early detection of prostate cancer is the PSA test — a simple blood test that is used to measure the levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in a man's blood.

One of the most popular PSA FAQs is when should a man start getting his PSA checked, and the answer can vary from person to person based on individual risk factors and other variables. After your first PSA test, you'll need to continue getting regular PSA tests — either annually or as often as recommended by your urologist — for the best chance possible of catching prostate cancer early, when treatment may be less invasive and more successful. Take a closer look here at important information on PSA testing from board-certified Jacksonville, FL urologists Dr. Ali Kasraeian and Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian of Kasraeian Urology — including who needs a PSA test, when your PSA should be checked, how often to get a PSA test, and more.

When should you get your first PSA test for prostate cancer?

For men who are at an "average" risk of prostate cancer, a PSA test is generally recommended at age 45. Because everyone has a unique health and family history, however, guidelines for PSA testing can be different for each person based on their individual prostate cancer risk factors. Following a comprehensive exam and consultation, including a review of your medical history, Dr. Kasraeian will discuss the most appropriate age for your first PSA and how often you'll need a PSA thereafter.

How often do you have to get a PSA test?

Again, recommendations for PSA testing frequency will vary based on a number of individual factors that can influence your overall risk for prostate cancer, including:

• Age
• Ethnicity
• Family history of prostate cancer
• Genetics
• Obesity
• Overall health status

Generally speaking, average at-risk men should have an annual PSA test, while men with certain known risk factors for prostate cancer and/or a history of prostate cancer may require more frequent testing as well as an initial PSA screening earlier than others. It is essential to follow your urologist's recommendations on how often to get a PSA closely, as some forms of the disease can progress rapidly — meaning even one missed PSA test can make a difference.

What if my PSA is elevated?

An elevated PSA may be alarming, particularly if you have never had a PSA elevation before, but try not to worry. Our caring team is here to help you understand what your elevated PSA means and guide you through the next steps. In some cases, a high PSA may, in fact, be a sign of prostate cancer, though there are several potential explanations for an elevated PSA that are not necessarily related to prostate cancer. Some of the most common causes of an elevated PSA include:

• Prostate cancer
• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Prostatitis (prostate infection)
• Recent sexual activity/ejaculation
• Recent prostate exam or procedure
• Certain physical activities, like cycling

In some men, the PSA naturally fluctuates from time to time for no apparent reason. Should you receive an elevated PSA result, Dr. Kasraeian may recommend a repeat PSA at a later date and/or a follow-up diagnostic test — like the ExoDx prostate test, 4K biomarkers, or the highly advanced MRI fusion prostate biopsy — to further evaluate for prostate cancer and obtain a definitive diagnosis so that you can begin treatment, if needed, as soon as possible.

Be proactive about your health and prostate cancer risk reduction with PSA testing in Jacksonville, FL

Whether you have a known family history of prostate cancer or are approaching the age when PSA testing is recommended, we are here to help. Take one of the most important steps in prostate cancer prevention and early diagnosis by calling to schedule your PSA test in Jacksonville, FL at Kasraeian Urology with board-certified urologists Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian and Dr. Ali Kasraeian today.