PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test

Does a high PSA always mean prostate cancer?

No — PSA can rise due to benign conditions like an enlarged prostate or infection just as easily as from cancer. Your doctor will consider your full clinical picture and may recommend further testing to clarify an elevated result.

What is Free PSA and why is it sometimes tested?

Free PSA measures the fraction of PSA that isn't bound to blood proteins; a lower Free PSA percentage is somewhat more suggestive of cancer, which helps refine risk assessment when total PSA is borderline.

Should all men get screened with PSA?

Screening recommendations vary by age, family history, and individual risk factors, and many guidelines now recommend a shared discussion between patient and doctor rather than universal screening — it's worth discussing your personal risk with your doctor.

Can activities before the test affect my PSA result?

Yes, recent ejaculation, vigorous cycling, or a recent prostate exam can all temporarily raise PSA, so following your doctor's pre-test instructions helps ensure an accurate result.