A Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test measures the level of PSA in the blood–a protein produced by the prostate gland. While elevated PSA levels do not always indicate cancer, they can signal changes in prostate health that require further investigation. 

Persistent or significantly high readings may suggest the presence of prostate cancer, making PSA testing a valuable tool for early detection. Identifying potential concerns early allows for timely follow-up, reducing the risk of late-stage diagnosis and improving treatment outcomes.

Not all PSA tests measure both ‘total’ and ‘free’ PSA levels, but these values help doctors better understand your prostate health.

• PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is a protein made by the prostate. Some of it moves into the bloodstream, where it can be measured with a blood test.
• Total PSA is the overall amount of PSA found in your blood.
• Free PSA is the portion of PSA that is not attached to other proteins in the blood.
• Total/Free PSA Ratio compares these two numbers. A lower ratio (meaning less free PSA) may indicate a higher risk of prostate cancer, while a higher ratio (more free PSA) may suggest a benign (non-cancerous) condition.

Since different factors can affect PSA levels, measuring both total and free PSA values provides a clearer picture of whether further tests or monitoring are needed, which is why they are included in credible PSA tests, such as PSACheck.

There are several factors that can raise PSA levels, including:

1. 1. Aging – PSA levels naturally increase with age, even in the absence of prostate disease.
2. 2. Prostate cancer – Elevated PSA levels can be a sign of prostate cancer, but high levels do not always mean cancer is present.
3. 3. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – An enlarged prostate, which is common as men age, can increase PSA levels.
4. 4. Recent ejaculation – Sexual activity, especially ejaculation, can cause a temporary rise in PSA levels.
5. 5. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) – Infections affecting the urinary system can also elevate PSA levels.
6. 6. Prostatitis (prostate infection or inflammation) – Infections or inflammation of the prostate can temporarily raise PSA levels.
7. 7. Prostate stimulation – Activities like a digital rectal exam (DRE) or prolonged cycling can slightly increase PSA levels.
8. 8. Recent prostate procedures – A prostate biopsy, surgery, or catheter insertion can lead to temporary PSA elevations.

Because many factors can influence PSA levels, it’s important to interpret results with a healthcare professional who can consider the full clinical picture.

It is important to note that some PSA tests available online provide results at home, but do not measure free and total PSA values and are not clinically validated. 

PSACheck is laboratory-analysed and meets rigorous clinical standards to ensure accuracy and reliability.

The Check4Cancer Prostate Cancer Screening test looks at free and total PSA levels: Results that fall between 4.00 ug/L and 10.00 ug/L will automatically reflex to a Free PSA with a calculated ratio. The ratio of Free to Total PSA may help discriminate between prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Check4Cancer’s Prostate Cancer Screening test also meets high clinical standards:

• Laboratory-grade standards: Our samples are processed in certified UKAS and ISO 15189 accredited laboratories.
• Sensitive detection: Identifies elevated PSA levels that may require further medical review.
• Clinical rigor: Meets stringent UK screening standards for accuracy and reliability.

The Free-to-Total PSA ratio is only provided when the total PSA level is elevated. This additional measurement helps provide more context for raised results and supports further clinical decision-making.