Prostate Cancer: What cancer Screening is all about?
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test
The PSA test is a blood test used mainly to screen for prostate cancer.
The test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. PSA is a protein produced by both cancerous and noncancerous tissue in the prostate (the small gland that sits under the bladder in men)
PSA is frequently found in semen, which also is produced in the prostate. Small amounts of PSA normally circulate in the blood.
The PSA test can identify high levels of PSA that may direct the presence of prostate cancer. Though, many other conditions, such as an enlarged or inflamed prostate, can also increase PSA levels. Therefore, determining what a high PSA score means can be difficult.
The PSA test is one of the tools used to screen for early signs of prostate cancer. Another test is done in addition to a PSA test, is a digital rectal exam. Abnormal results in these tests may lead your doctor to suggests a prostate biopsy. A diagnosis of cancer that is based on the biopsy results.
Advantages of the test
A PSA test may benefit detect prostate cancer at an early stage. Cancer is easier to treat and is more likely to be cured if it’s detected in its early stages.
Reference: https://mayocl.in/3cKuYXU
