At KCUC, we treat more prostate cancer cases than anyone in the KC area. We know how important early detection of prostate cancer is. Prostate health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, and being proactive in understanding and monitoring your prostate-specific antigen (PSA) number can be a game-changer in the early detection of prostate cancer. Don’t underestimate the importance of knowing your PSA number. If you don’t know your PSA number, especially if you are over 45, it’s time to get tested ASAP.
What Is PSA?
PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is a protein produced by both normal and cancerous cells in the prostate gland. It is typically found in semen but can also be detected in the blood. A PSA test is a simple blood test that measures the level of this antigen in the blood, providing valuable information about the health of the prostate.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men globally. According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Knowing your PSA number can aid in the early detection of prostate cancer, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment. According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, the five-year survival rate for localized prostate cancer is nearly 100%. However, this rate drops significantly for cancers that have spread beyond the prostate. Early detection through regular PSA screenings dramatically impacts these survival rates.
Elevated PSA Doesn’t Always Mean Cancer
Your PSA number serves as a crucial indicator of potential prostate issues. If you have an elevated PSA number, it doesn’t always mean you have prostate cancer. Elevated PSA levels may signal other issues including prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate), or benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate). Regular monitoring allows for a baseline to be established, aiding in the identification of abnormal trends. All prostate conditions can have negative effects and detecting any health issue early is beneficial, but early detection of prostate cancer is critically important to a positive outcome.
PSA Tests Are Simple Blood Tests
Getting your PSA number checked is a straightforward blood test. It’s easily accessible, and the process is relatively quick, making it a convenient tool for proactive healthcare. Regular screenings can help detect changes early, allowing for timely intervention and reducing the risk of complications.
How Often Should You Have Your PSA Levels Checked?
It’s essential for men to have their initial prostate exam to establish a baseline for future comparisons. If everything looks fine initially, it’s still crucial to continue monitoring your PSA number regularly. At KCUC, we recommend regular prostate cancer screening in men starting at age 40-55, depending on personal risk factors, and continuing every 1-2 years until at least age 70-75 depending on individual overall health and life expectancy. African American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer should start screening at age 40. Prostate cancer screening should consist of a PSA blood test and prostate exam.
Share This Simple and Life-Saving Information
Understanding your PSA number is a proactive step towards maintaining good prostate health. The simplicity of the test, coupled with the potential life-saving benefits of early detection, should motivate men to prioritize regular screenings. Remember, knowledge is power, and in the case of prostate health, it can be a lifesaver. Knowing your PSA number is important. Talk to your family and friends and help spread the word. By advocating for awareness and encouraging routine check-ups every other year, you can help save lives.
KCUC – Prostate Specialists
At KCUC Urology and Oncology, we treat more prostate cancer patients than anyone else in the KC area, and we also offer treatments for enlarged prostate. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with BPH, learn about the best and latest treatments for enlarged prostate. If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, learn about cutting-edge prostate cancer treatment options.