The prostate cancer screening (PSA) measures a protein (prostate-specific antigen) produced exclusively by the prostate, which is a walnut-sized gland found in men only. It is recommended that you take a prostate cancer screening (PSA) annually, beginning at age 50, if you do not have any serious medical problems and can be expected to live at least 10 more years, according to the American Cancer Society. Men at high risk for prostate cancer should begin prostate cancer screening (PSA) at age 45, or even age 40, depending on your personal and family medical history.
Prostate cancer often grows slowly, which is why early detection greatly aids in cures and treatments. The prostate cancer screening (PSA) is also helpful after prostate cancer has been diagnosed because it can be used along with other tests to help you and your doctor decide which types of treatment might be best suited to your condition. For example, a very high prostate cancer screening (PSA) level might indicate that the cancer has spread to other parts of your body. The prostate cancer screening (PSA) can also show if your cancer treatment is working or if malignant cells still exist following treatment.
Prostate cancer is the second-most common cancer in men in the United States (skin cancer is first). The American Cancer Society estimates about 30,350 men will die from prostate cancer in 2005, and 232,090 new cases will be diagnosed. Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in men, behind only lung cancer, the American Cancer Society says.
PSA results
Prostate cancer screening (PSA) results are provided in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL); elevated results can indicate the existence of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer screening (PSA) results between 0–4 ng/mL are considered normal. If your prostate cancer screening (PSA) level is between 4 ng/mL and 10 ng/mL, you have a 1-in-4 chance of having prostate cancer. If it is higher than 10 ng/mL, your chances are even higher of having prostate cancer. However, prostate cancer screening (PSA) levels can rise temporarily because of other health issues, such as age, a prostate infection or certain medications.
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is produced exclusively by cells of the prostate gland; PSA is a useful screening test for benign prostate enlargement and prostate cancer development.