The term PSA is being thrown around a lot lately, so just what is it? Is it
important? PSA is an acronym for Prostate Specific Antigen, and you bet it is
important. So that clears it up, Right? Not hardly. PSA is produced by the
prostate gland and has been shown to be tied to actual prostate cancer when it
rises above a certain level depending on certain risk factors. It is a
confusing system since some men, relax ladies, only men have prostate glands;
with low scores have cancer, while some men with high scores do not. Often, the
size of the prostate, age, and prostate enlargement will raise the PSA score to
a level higher than what is considered normal or safe.
What do the numbers mean?
PSA was identified in 1970 as a marker for altered prostate tissue and is
now the most reliable method for assessing risk of prostate cancer. Studies
show that men’s scores will increase with age. According to WebMD, ideal PSA
levels should be at or below these levels for the following ages:
Men younger than 40: Less than 2.0
Men age 40 to 50: Less than 2.5
Men age 51 to 60: Less than 3.5
Men age 61 to 70: Less than 4.5
Men whose PSA levels fall out side of these parameters should have more
aggressive diagnostic procedures including a biopsy, which is generally done in
the doctor’s office and only takes a short time. The American Cancer Society
and the American Urological Association recommend that men over 50 have a
regular prostate exam to include a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) and a PSA test.
Who is affected?
Prostate Cancer affects 1 in 9 men and kills 37,000 men every year.
Fortunately, it is a very treatable form of cancer and the life expectancy is very
good. After being diagnosed, treated men with prostate cancer can expect to
live at least 5 years, since 99% do. 92% live 10 years, and 61% live at least
15 years. Get checked; early detection saves lives.
No one likes the idea of a Digital Rectal Exam, a biopsy, or having someone
stick a needle in your arm to draw blood; but we all like cancer less!