Prostate-Specific Antigen, commonly referred to as PSA, is a protein produced by cells in the prostate gland. It is predominantly found in semen, but small amounts are also detected in the blood. The concentration is measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Regular PSA testing becomes particularly crucial as men age, serving as a valuable indicator in monitoring prostate health.
PSA's primary function relates to the reproductive system. It is a component of the seminal fluid, where it plays an essential role in liquefying semen after ejaculation, which facilitates sperm mobility. While its role in semen is clear, elevated levels in the blood can indicate issues with the prostate's health, potentially alerting to conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia, inflammation, or even prostate cancer. Thus, PSA acts as a significant biological marker that helps in early detection and monitoring of prostate irregularities.
Unusually high PSA levels can be a cause for concern. While a single elevated reading isn't conclusive of any disease, persistently high values may indicate prostate conditions such as prostatitis, benign enlargement, or even cancer. Low levels, while less common, generally aren't a cause for worry but also warrant monitoring as dramatically low PSA could indicate a significant decrease in prostate gland activity. It is pivotal to consult a healthcare professional if your PSA levels are out of the normal range to ensure comprehensive assessment and timely intervention.
Generally, a PSA level under 4.0 ng/mL is considered within the normal range, though this can vary based on age and specific health conditions. As we grow older, a marginal increase in PSA is also seen as normal. Keeping PSA at optimal levels can be managed with a healthy lifestyle which encompasses regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol usage. It is crucial to stay informed and have regular screenings, especially if there's a family history of prostate issues or other risk factors.
Understand how your PSA levels and other key blood markers are impacting your overall health with iBloodTests. Our online AI-powered tool offers a comprehensive evaluation of your health state, taking into account your basic health data, lifestyle habits, diet, and even family history. Benefit from personalized diet, workout, and lifestyle plans curated exclusively for you. Try it now for free and analyze up to five metabolites. Protect your privacy with our secure service which retains no personal health data. Start your journey towards better health today with iBloodTests!
iBloodTests interprets your test results, explains your general health status, and creates a personalized nutritional plan and a 14-day lifestyle and exercise plan tailored to you.
All for much less than the cost of a doctor's visit.
Free trial iBloodTests free of charge by analyzing up to 5 tests, and
choose your health and wellness
when you want more.
You can manually enter your blood test results, or upload the original lab document directly.
You can provide general data to better interpret your results, such as age, weight or even your habits.
iBloodTests analyze your test values, along with your overall health status, to detect what is fine and what needs to be improved.
Get a personalized report with an overall assessment of your results, suggestions for diet, exercise and healthy habits.
We take your privacy seriously.
Your information is always yours. We do not store, share or analyze any medical information you provide to us, nor do we associate it with you in any way.
Our AI models do not keep the data, do not use it for training, and do not share it in any way.
We do not have access to the reports generated, and if you upload files, they are deleted as soon as they are processed.
Because your privacy is as important to us as your health.