Prostate Cancer: What is the PSA test?

The PSA test is a blood test that measures the amount of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. PSA is a protein produced by normal cells in the prostate and also by prostate cancer cells. 


It’s normal to have a small amount of PSA in your blood, and the amount rises slightly as you get older and your prostate gets bigger. A raised PSA level may suggest you have a problem with your prostate, but not necessarily cancer.


Prostate cancer doesn’t always present with symptoms. Checking for raised PSA levels is one of the least invasive ways to pick up prostate cancer early.


Earlier treatment is often less aggressive, and may also increase life expectancy and the chance of a full recovery.

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