Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)

PSA is a protein produced by the prostate. A rise in its blood level may relate to prostate enlargement, inflammation or cancer.

It is used for prostate-cancer screening (usually from age 50, earlier if at risk), for urinary problems and to monitor treatment.

For 48 hours before the test, avoid intense exercise, cycling and ejaculation, which can temporarily raise PSA.

A venous blood draw.

A raised PSA is not a cancer diagnosis — it can rise for other reasons too. The result is assessed with age and trend in mind, often with further urological evaluation.