What Is PSA?
PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated levels can indicate prostate cancer, but also benign prostate enlargement (BPH), prostatitis, and other non-cancerous conditions.
What PSA Measures
PSA is not a cancer-specific marker — it's a prostate-specific one. Elevated PSA means "something is happening in the prostate," not necessarily cancer.
PSA Reference Ranges by Age
Under 50: Above 2.5 ng/mL warrants investigation. 50–59: Above 3.5. 60–69: Above 4.5. 70+: Above 6.5.
The rate of rise (PSA velocity) is often more important than a single reading.
What Can Raise PSA (Beyond Cancer)
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Prostatitis
- Ejaculation — raises PSA for 24–48 hours
- Vigorous cycling
- 5-alpha reductase inhibitors — artificially lower PSA
PSA Screening: Informed Decision
PSA screening should be an informed decision between a man and his physician, weighing individual risk, values, and preferences.
Is PSA Tested in a Standard Physical?
Not universally. Stem Health includes PSA in the Horizon Assessment for male patients.
