Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
The American Cancer Society estimates that about
179,000 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer
in 1999. The good news is that the prostate specific
antigen (PSA) blood test may catch prostate cancer
early, when it best responds to treatment.
This simple blood test detects prostate specific
antigen, a chemical that escapes from the prostate
into the bloodstream in very small quantities.
Higher levels of PSA may mean you have a prostate
problem, such as an enlarged prostate, infection
or cancer. If you have elevated PSA levels, your
doctor will refer you to a urologist for more
tests.
The American Cancer Society recommends regular
PSA tests for:
- African-American men beginning at age 40
- White men whose brother or father had prostate
cancer beginning at age 40
- White men (without a family history of the
disease) beginning at age 50
Make an appointment today to talk to your doctor
about the PSA test. It could save your life!
|
