The prostate is a small gland about the size and shape of a walnut. It is located under the bladder, in front of the rectum, and surrounds part of the urethra (the tube that empties urine from the bladder). If the prostate grows too large, the flow of urine can be slowed or stopped. The prostate makes, stores, and secretes fluid that forms part of the semen in which sperm are transported. PSA is a protein made by the prostate. Most PSA is found in semen, but some can be found in blood. A PSA test is a blood test that checks your PSA level.
High PSA levels provide a clue that a man may have prostate cancer. High levels may also be caused by cancer or non-cancerous conditions like infection, or an enlarged prostate. After treatment, your doctor will continue to monitor your PSA levels. If any prostate cancer cells remain after treatment they would cause a rise in the PSA.
Normal PSA Levels:
| Age | PSA Level |
| Up to age 49 | 0.00-2.50 µg/l |
| 50-59 | 0.00-3.50 µg/l |
| 60-69 | 0.00-4.50 µg/l |
| Age 70 and above | 0.00-6.50 µg/l |
*Reference range from Calgary lab Services.
Posted in: Men's Health Measurements
