Health & Fitness

The PSA blood test is used to monitor and screen for prostate cancer, which is the most commonly diagnosed cancer other than skin cancer–one in five American men will develop it during their lifetimes. Currently, many major scientific and medical organizations do not advocate routine testing for prostate cancer, but many physicians screen their patients.

The PSA blood test is often used in conjunction with the DRE (digital rectal exam) to screen for prostate cancer. The PSA test involves drawing blood from a vein in the arm, while the DRE is performed by a urologist, who inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the patients rectum to feel for lumps, enlargements, or areas of hardness that might indicate prostate cancer. PSA tests and the DRE are strongly recommended for men over 50; if youre an African-American male, or have a family history of prostate cancer, you should begin getting tested at 45.

Issues with the PSA Blood Test
Many in the medical community feel blood tests, screening and treatment may actually do more harm than good for men who have a slow-growing cancer. Some feel surgery and radiation may be more harmful or debilitating than a slow-growing prostate cancer, causing impotence and incontinence. PSA blood testing does not detect all prostate cancers and has other limitations; more research will essentially help determine the best method of treatment.

If you have specific questions about the PSA blood test, digital rectal exam, or prostate cancer, then speak to a qualified health care professional. If you have prostate cancer, they will help you determine the best course of action to combat this awful disease. Most men who have the cancer detected in its earliest stages will make a full recovery.