Why a PSA Test is Nothing To Be Scared Of
Cancer is an illness that will affect so many of us throughout our lifetime, so it makes sense that we’ll want to try and reduce the impact it has. The early detection of cancer is one of the most reliable ways to ensure that treatment is successful – which is why there have been so many campaigns to raise awareness of the symptoms of different cancers. Prostate cancer can be detected early, which gives people a much bigger chance of treatment being successful. However, medical examinations and treatments like this are something that many men are embarrassed to talk about – which is why it so often goes undetected. The truth is that a PSA test is not something we should be ashamed to have done and it really is nothing to be scared of!
What is a PSA test?
If you haven’t had a PSA test before then you may be wondering what does PSA stand for.
PSA – Prostate-Specific-Antigen is a set of protein cells that can mostly be found in semen. They are made up of normal (and possible cancer) cells in the prostate gland. These are measured in nanograms per millilitre and the amount you have depends slightly on age.
A PSA test is carried out by a doctor or medical professional to measure the level of PSA in a man’s blood. A raised level of PSA in the blood can be a signal for prostate cancer; however, it can also mean a urine infection, an enlarged prostate or prostatitis.
If you are asked to come in for a PSA test then there is nothing to worry about, it is a simple blood test that is sent off to be checked. Although a cancer diagnosis can be a scary prospect, it is important to remember that a higher level doesn’t guarantee a diagnosis of cancer.
Why Have a PSA Test?
Looking after our health is something that should at the forefront of our minds. It is important to look after our health and wellbeing and a big part of this is seeking medical advice when we are unwell. If you are experiencing any symptoms then you should reach out to your doctor who will refer you for treatment if they feel that is an appropriate cause of action.
All in all a PSA test is a relatively simple blood test and nothing that should be too much to worry about. The person carrying out the test will be well versed at carrying out tests like this so will make the process as smooth as possible.
Although you might be shy to seek out this type of treatment, the earlier something like this can be detected the better chances of treatment will be. Although it might be a few minutes of feeling embarrassed, the benefits of dining out about a possible illness outweigh this massively – and of course, you have the fact that the text may well just give you peace of mind that you don’t have prostate cancer at all and that feeling is priceless!
