Prostate Specific Antigen
What is prostate?
The
prostate is a gland that is part of the male reproductive system.
It is about the size of a walnut and is located in front of
the rectum and just below the bladder. The prostate produces
the liquid part of semen, which transports sperm.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer found in men in the United States. Prostate cancer is more common in older men and is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men. One in ten will develop prostate cancer during their lifetime. Early detection is the most important tool a patient can have in the fight against prostate cancer.
What is PSA?
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein made by prostate tissue. Men with prostate cancer often have elevated PSA levels because the cancer cells make excessive amounts of this protein.
Why should you be tested?
Since the risk of prostate cancer increases with age, it
is recommended that men have an
annual prostate screening comprised of a PSA blood test and
a digital rectal exam (DRE) from
age 50. Men in high risk groups, such as African Americans
and those who have a family
history of prostate cancer, should begin annual screening
at age 40.