What causes prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is caused by uncontrolled cell growth in the prostate gland, often influenced by hormonal factors, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Age is the strongest risk factor, with most cases occurring in men over 65, and genetic mutations can increase susceptibility. Family history, race (African American men have higher risk), and lifestyle factors like diet and obesity also contribute to prostate cancer development.

What is the best test for prostate cancer?

The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is the most important blood test for prostate cancer screening and monitoring because it detects elevated levels of PSA protein produced by prostate cells. For more detailed assessment, the PSA Free and Total test is essential as it calculates the ratio of free to bound PSA, with a lower percentage indicating higher cancer likelihood. The Prostatic Acid Phosphatase (PAP) test provides additional diagnostic information, while the PSA Ultrasensitive test is critical for men after prostate surgery to detect any cancer recurrence early.

When should I get tested for prostate cancer?

You should get tested if you are over 50 years old, have a family history of prostate cancer, are African American (higher risk group), experience urinary symptoms like difficulty urinating or weak stream, or notice blood in urine or semen. Men with elevated risk factors should consider starting screening at age 45, and those with multiple family members affected should begin at age 40. Regular PSA monitoring is important for early detection when cancer is most treatable.

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

Early prostate cancer often has no symptoms, which is why screening is crucial. As cancer progresses, you might notice difficulty starting urination or a weak urine stream, frequent urination especially at night, blood in urine or semen, or painful ejaculation. Advanced prostate cancer can cause bone pain (particularly in the spine, hips, or ribs), unexplained weight loss, and erectile dysfunction. Many of these symptoms overlap with benign prostate conditions, so testing is necessary for accurate diagnosis.

Who is at risk for prostate cancer?

Men over 50 are at highest risk, with risk increasing significantly after age 65. African American men have nearly twice the risk compared to other racial groups and tend to develop more aggressive forms. Having a father, brother, or son with prostate cancer doubles your risk, and risk increases further with multiple affected family members. Other risk factors include obesity, tall height, smoking, and possibly high calcium intake or vitamin E supplementation.

What happens if prostate cancer is left untreated?

Untreated prostate cancer can spread beyond the prostate to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, and bones, particularly the spine, pelvis, and ribs. Advanced cancer causes severe bone pain, fractures, spinal cord compression, and urinary obstruction requiring emergency intervention. Metastatic prostate cancer can lead to anemia, kidney failure, weight loss, and significantly reduced quality of life. While some prostate cancers grow slowly and may not require immediate treatment, aggressive forms can be life-threatening if not monitored and treated appropriately.

Can prostate cancer be diagnosed with a blood test?

Blood tests like the PSA test cannot definitively diagnose prostate cancer but are essential screening tools that indicate when further investigation is needed. Elevated PSA levels suggest the possibility of cancer, but can also result from benign conditions like prostatitis or enlarged prostate. Definitive diagnosis requires a prostate biopsy where tissue samples are examined under a microscope. However, blood tests are crucial for initial screening, risk assessment, monitoring treatment response, and detecting recurrence after treatment.

How is prostate cancer treated?

Treatment depends on cancer stage, grade, age, and overall health. Active surveillance monitors slow-growing cancers with regular PSA tests and biopsies without immediate treatment. Surgery (prostatectomy) removes the entire prostate gland and is common for localized cancer. Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells, while hormone therapy blocks testosterone that fuels cancer growth. Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted drug therapy are options for advanced or metastatic cancer. Many men combine treatments for optimal outcomes.

How can I prevent prostate cancer?

While you cannot completely prevent prostate cancer, you can reduce risk through lifestyle modifications. Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and tomatoes (containing lycopene). Limit red meat and high-fat dairy products, and avoid excessive calcium supplementation. Do not smoke and limit alcohol consumption. Consider discussing finasteride or dutasteride with your doctor if you have elevated risk, as these medications may reduce cancer incidence. Regular screening is the best strategy for early detection when cancer is most treatable.

What can I do at home to support prostate health?

Eat a diet rich in tomatoes, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, and green tea, which contain compounds that may support prostate health. Exercise regularly, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly to maintain healthy weight and hormone levels. Manage stress through meditation or yoga, as chronic stress affects immune function. Stay hydrated but limit fluids before bedtime to reduce nighttime urination. Consider foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon and walnuts, and ensure adequate selenium and zinc intake through diet rather than high-dose supplements.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

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When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

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Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Prostate Cancer Blood Test | Private MD Labs

Prostate Cancer Blood Test

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the prostate gland, one of the most common cancers affecting men. It occurs when cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably, often influenced by hormones like dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is the most important blood test for early detection and monitoring of prostate cancer.

Written by Private MD Labs Medical Team

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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