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What is prostate-specific antigen?

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein that’s made by the prostate, a small gland that produces semen in men. PSA helps keep the semen in a liquid state, which helps sperm move.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)

Why is PSA important?

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer will occur in 1 in 8 men during their lifetime and is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men after lung cancer in the U.S [1]. Because PSA is secreted by the prostate, elevated PSA levels may be indicative of an enlarged prostate gland caused by cancer.

Measuring and analyzing PSA levels can lead to a variety of helpful checks, such as:

  1. Prostate Health
    • A PSA test is often used to check for problems with the prostate. Measuring PSA levels is critical to understanding inflammation and other diseases in the prostate, including cancer.
  2. Checking Cancer Treatment
    • If you’ve been treated for prostate cancer, your doctor might use the PSA test to see if the treatment is working or if the cancer has come back.

How can I better understand my PSA levels?

To help you understand your PSA results, men can use the following reference ranges:

  • Optimal: 0-3 ng/mL
  • In range: 3-4 ng/mL
  • Out of range: 4+ ng/mL

According to the American Cancer Society, a PSA between 4 and 10 ng/mL is equivalent to a 25% chance of having prostate cancer, while a PSA over 10 ng/mL increases the likelihood to over 50% [2]. Some factors, such as certain medications and even obesity, may lower PSA and make this test a misleading representation of your actual cancer risk. If you are concerned with your results, please consult with your physician to seek treatment.

It is important to note that not everyone with a high PSA has prostate cancer, and even people with low PSA can have prostate cancer. PSA is simply a commonly used metric that may indicate the need for further testing.

How can I maintain optimal PSA levels?

If your PSA levels are elevated, try incorporating some of these changes to lower your PSA levels and maintain a healthy prostate:

Dietary Changes: Consuming lycopene by eating pink or red fruits and veggies, following a plant-based diet, consuming coffee, and drinking green tea can help to improve PSA levels [3][4].

Lifestyle Changes: Increasing physical activity and quitting smoking can aid in regulating PSA levels [5].

Supplementation: Supplementing with vitamin D can help as well.

Where can I learn more?

DISCLAIMER: IF YOU ARE CONCERNED WITH ANY OF YOUR RESULTS, PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN.

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