Prostate Check (PSA & PAP Tests)

The Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. The PSA blood test is considered the most effective test currently available for the early detection of prostate cancer. Most cases of early prostate cancer are found using a PSA blood test.

PSA is present in small quantities (under four (ng/mL)) in the blood of healthy men, but the presence of prostate cancer or other prostate disorders can increase a mans PSA level. According to published studies, men who have a PSA level between four and 10 have a 25% chance of having prostate cancer and if the PSA level is higher than 10, the risk of cancer increases to 67%. Rising levels of PSA over time are almost always associated with prostate cancer.

Prostate disorders and prostate cancer become more common as men age. The most frequent benign prostate disorders are inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis) and enlargement of the prostate (prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)). There is no evidence that these conditions cause cancer, but it is possible for a man to have one or both of these conditions and to develop prostate cancer as well.

The Health Testing Centers Prostate Check includes the PSA blood test with the PAP blood test that measures prostatic acid phosphatase (an enzyme primarily found in the prostate gland and semen) to determine the health of the prostate gland. Prostate dysfunction often results in the release of PAP into the blood. The powerful combination of the PSA and PAP blood tests will give you the information that you need and the peace of mind that you deserve.