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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Tumor Markers

PSA levels: what do they tell you about your prostate health?

PSA is a well-established marker for prostate health and an important component of preventive health assessment for men. Establishing a personal PSA baseline allows meaningful trend monitoring over time.

Reference Ranges

Male
ug/l
Normal < 4 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

What It Measures

PSA measures the total blood concentration of prostate-specific antigen, a serine protease enzyme produced almost exclusively by prostate cells. Elevated blood PSA may reflect a larger prostate volume, inflammation, or increased cellular permeability.

Why It Matters

PSA monitoring is widely used for prostate health assessment. Tracking PSA velocity (rate of change) over time provides important information. Because PSA rises with age and is influenced by many benign factors, a single result is rarely definitive. Always consult a healthcare provider for interpretation.

When to Test

PSA testing recommendations vary by age, family history, and ethnicity. Many healthcare providers recommend discussing PSA testing from age 50 (or earlier for those with higher risk). Avoid vigorous exercise, sexual activity, and prostate-stimulating procedures in the 48 hours before a PSA test.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Low PSA levels within the normal range are generally reassuring. PSA levels naturally vary with age.

High Levels

An elevated PSA does not cause symptoms. Symptoms that may lead to PSA testing include: frequent urination, weak urine flow, difficulty starting urination, nocturia, blood in urine or semen. These more commonly reflect benign conditions such as BPH or prostatitis.

Lifestyle Tips

Maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, a diet rich in vegetables and fruit (particularly lycopene-containing tomatoes), and limiting red and processed meat may support prostate health. Always discuss prostate health concerns with your healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a high PSA mean prostate cancer?
No. Many benign conditions — most commonly BPH and prostatitis — cause PSA to rise. Vigorous cycling and sex can also temporarily raise PSA.
What is PSA velocity?
PSA velocity is the rate of change in PSA levels over time. A rapidly rising PSA — even within normal range — can be more significant than a static elevated value.
Should I avoid anything before a PSA test?
You should avoid vigorous exercise (especially cycling), sexual activity, and digital rectal examination for at least 48 hours before your test.