Private MD News

PSA test needs vary among different men

Category: Prostate

Prostate cancer is among the most common types of cancer in men, which is why experts recommend frequent PSA testing to help men understand their individual prostate cancer risk. However, the frequency of testing should depend on the man’s age.

For example men who are in their 40s may need less frequent testing than those who are over age 50. The need for testing also depends on a man’s first PSA test result. A higher score may mean they need more frequent testing.

"For young men whose PSAs are 0.7 or higher in their 40s, we recommend they get testing every year or every two years and a decision to do a biopsy to look for prostate cancer should be based on the rise of their PSA," Gerald Andriole, a urologist at Siteman Cancer Center, told local news station KSDK.

The National Cancer Institute reports that age is one of the most important risk factors for prostate cancer, which makes PSA testing more important as men age. A family history of prostate cancer may also make men more likely to develop the condition.