Don’t Forget Your PSA Test
If you’re a young man, you’re probably not overly concerned about prostate cancer. If you are approaching the age of 50, you may be starting to wonder about it. If you’re over 50, chances are that you have already been screened for this disease by your doctor. In fact, testing for prostate cancer has been the focus of a significant amount of research in recent years. One test in particular, the measurement of a man’s PSA (prostate specific antigen), is revolutionizing the screening and treatment of this cancer.
The prostate is a walnut-sized, male sex gland located below the bladder and directly in front of the rectum. During intercourse, it produces a thick fluid that helps force sperm through the urethra and out of the penis. The prostate also produces PSA, an enzyme that liquefies seminal fluid permitting sperm to swim more freely. In the case of a healthy prostate, some of this prostate specific antigen leaks out into the bloodstream where it is either bound to blood proteins, or it is left “free” and unbound. According to recent research at the National Institute of Aging (NIA) and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, in cases of prostatic disease, including infection, prostate enlargement or cancer, increased levels of total PSA are readily detected in the blood. Elevated PSA readings would indicate the need for further diagnostic tests.
NIA and John’s Hopkins studies have shown that the rate of increase of total prostate specific antigen levels over time is one of the best predictors of prostate cancer. The ratio of free to total PSA can also predict whether prostate cancer is developing as well as its aggressiveness (i.e., whether it’s fast or slow growing). So when the time comes, remember your prostate specific antigen test – in the long run, your prostate might thank you.