PSA testing, what are your feelings about it?
Here in the prostate cancer community, there are many thoughts, feelings, and experiences about PSA testing. This is a space to share about all things PSA testing.
PSA testing is basically a simple blood test and can easily be included as part of annual physical exam with or without the "dreaded" digital exam. I would tell any man to insist on a PSA test even if his MD says "you do not need one" because the test is not 100% accurate etc. While PSA testing is not a test for cancer it can offer some guidance for future action.
Additionally I suggest to always keep a written history of your psa tests. If you see an increase in numbers over a few tests it may be a good idea to connect with a urologist vs staying with a GP. I did that a few months ago and candidly that early warning paid off for me. Dennis (ProstateCancer.net TEAM)
Hi
. One term that comes up repeatedly in discussion of the the PSA is "doubling time" and another is "velocity." Both are focusing on how fast the PSA increases, as opposed to just the number. Len wrote here about why he uses specialists and one key behind using a urologist is that they know to look at the rate of increase: https://prostatecancer.net/living/healthcare-specialist. Glad yours was caught and you are doing well. Best, Richard (Team Member) 
thank you
PSA tests aren’t wrong/misleading (unless there’s a lab error). Many people have simply misunderstood its purpose.
For initial diagnosis, a PSA test isn’t a “cancer test.” The PSA number itself is similar to a “check engine” light in your car; it indicates that something may be wrong, and further checks should be made “under the hood.” Might be as simple as a UTI; might be BPH; might be more serious. (Or the man might have engaged in an activity causing a temporary rise in PSA. Many things can affect PSA, which is why it’s important to be sure that your PSA is as accurate as possible.)
Just need to have further checks. No need to panic, or rush to a quick treatment decision, or get overly concerned. With early and annual screening, if there is an elevated PSA, other tests and numbers should also play a role in deciding on additional treatment.
Hi
. Your concerns about the high PSA are certainly understandable. One thing that is important to remember is that, while a higher PSA may be an indicator of potential cancer, it does not directly equate to more aggressive cancer (see here for example: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/psa-test/about/pac-20384731). I also want to note that treatments have come a long way and we have a number of men in the community who have been stage 4 for quite a few years. Many here know how difficult this is, but it is important until you get the specifics about the diagnosis to not think about worst case scenarios. Wishing you the best. Richard (Team Member) Yes, a PSA of 25 is highly survivable. There are many things that factor in determining prostate cancer diagnosis, treatments and outcomes. Don’t let fear distract you; let the numbers guide you step-by-step through this and you’ll be fine. (I know a guy who had a PSA of 11,700 on his very 1st PSA test. He attends an online support group that is held every Wednesday evening.)
I had my 1st PSA test at 45y (in 2000) — because I asked for it. That’s the way it often is with PSA testing; a guy simply has to ask for it.
I had an 8.6 the prior year. At my wellness exam, the doctor told me "we do not do PSA at your age". I finally took myself to urology. PSA 16.3 and 21 of 23 biopsies bad. Radiation; chemical castration. Alive but no longer a 'man'.
You're still a man. Cancer creates a new me is my mantra. Sure, there are things I absolutely hate about such as radiation and ADT but I can still live most of my life with my new normal. Death ends it all. I hear you, brother
If it was up to me, I'd have PSA testing for men start at 40.
