Understanding PSA levels, normal PSA test results, and prostate screening guidelines
NO
You can eat and drink normally before the test
Blood Test
Simple blood draw from your arm
1-3 Days
Most labs provide results quickly
0-4 ng/mL
For most men under 70
Essential guidelines for accurate PSA blood test results and normal PSA readings
No fasting required
Eat and drink normally
Simple blood test
Takes only a few minutes
Avoid ejaculation 48 hours before
Can temporarily raise PSA levels
No vigorous exercise 48 hours before
Cycling can affect results
Understanding PSA values by age, normal PSA range, and prostate antigen levels
Normal PSA levels for most men - standard PSA values
May need additional testing
Further evaluation recommended
Many non-cancerous conditions can raise PSA levels:
If your PSA is between 4-10 ng/mL, your doctor may order a free PSA test. This measures the percentage of PSA that's not bound to proteins.
Free PSA Percentage Guide:
No, fasting is not required. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
PSA is a blood test. A small sample is taken from a vein in your arm.
Men with normal PSA may retest every 2-4 years. Those with elevated levels may need annual testing. Your doctor will recommend the best schedule for you.
Most men should discuss PSA testing with their doctor at age 50. Men with family history or higher risk may start at 45 or even 40.
Most results are available within 1-3 business days. At-home kits may take 5-7 days.
A PSA of 4.5 is slightly elevated but not necessarily cause for alarm. Your doctor will consider your age, family history, and may recommend additional tests like free PSA.
Yes, some medications like finasteride (Proscar) or dutasteride (Avodart) can lower PSA levels by about 50%. Always inform your doctor about all medications.
PSA is a blood test, while DRE (Digital Rectal Exam) is a physical exam where the doctor feels the prostate. Both may be used together for screening.
Understanding prostate specific antigen, PSA blood screening, and PSA antigen test
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is a protein produced by prostate cells. The PSA blood test measures prostate specific ag levels to screen for prostate health. Understanding normal PSA values and PSA count is essential for men's health screening.
PSA testing can help detect prostate problems early, including cancer, when treatment is most effective. However, it's important to understand that PSA testing is just one tool in prostate health screening.