The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Men’s Health Month: Educate yourself about elevated PSA.
A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level is often mentioned when discussing men’s health, but many men don’t know what this is or how it can affect them.
PSA is a protein produced by the prostate cells. The PSA level is checked by a simple blood test. If the blood test shows an elevated PSA level, a digital rectal exam (using a gloved finger to feel for lumps or abnormalities in the prostate gland) is done to screen for prostate cancer.
An elevated PSA level doesn’t necessarily mean that prostate cancer is present. An enlarged prostate, inflammation and urinary tract infection may cause the level to rise. PSA levels often naturally increase as men age.
“In most cases, early-stage prostate cancer does not cause symptoms,” says Anthony Avallone, MD, a urologic oncologist who practices at Cleveland Clinic Avon Hospital and Cleveland Clinic Richard E. Jacobs Health Center.
Are you at risk?
Prostate cancer is a common disease; one in six men develops it. Certain factors place men at increased risk.
Risk factors for developing prostate cancer include: Family history: A family history of the disease significantly increases risk. Race: African-American men develop the disease more often.
The physician should discuss the screening process, risks and benefits. “It’s important for the patient to be informed and make the decision to get screened with their physician,” stresses Dr. Avallone.
An elevated PSA level can be a sign of prostate cancer. If a patient has a persistently elevated PSA level, the next step is a prostate biopsy. If prostate cancer is found, it’s often able to be cured when treated.
It’s important to get screened
The discussion about yearly prostate cancer screening should begin at age 40 for men with risk factors. For all other men, it can wait until they are 55 and should continue through at least age 70.
“Most often, an elevated PSA level may not be serious. Getting screened will help to ease your mind or find issues early,” says Dr. Avallone. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Avallone or another Cleveland Clinic urologist, call 216.444.5600. Cleveland Clinic offers same-day appointments.