Prostate (PSA)
The PSA test helps detect possible prostate abnormalities, such as prostate cancer. The test measures the amount of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) in your blood. An elevated PSA level can indicate prostate cancer, but it can also be caused by benign conditions, such as prostatitis or an enlarged prostate (Benign Prostate Hyperplasia, BPH).
This blood test measures:
- PSA total
- Free PSA (for a PSA total higher than 4.0, recommended for values above 10)
A PSA test may be especially useful if you:
- Have a family history of prostate cancer (recommended from age 35-40)
- Are older than 45 and want to know your PSA baseline value
- Suffer from symptoms such as a weak urine stream or frequent urination
- Want more insight into your prostate health
With an elevated PSA value, additional testing is often needed to determine the cause. If you need help interpreting your result, you can request a consultation with one of our specialists.
Key considerations:
- PSA tests can detect prostate cancer early, but do not always provide definitive answers.
- An elevated PSA level does not automatically mean cancer.
- When in doubt, an additional measurement of the ratio of free to total PSA can help with interpretation.
Not sure if the PSA test is right for you? Use this decision aid for more information.
Is it anonymous?
Blood test never gives the results to insurer or (family) physician. You will receive the blood tubes at the address you provide, they have a barcode that communicates with your research, but it is not traceable by anyone what is tested, only by the lab system. The results are sent exclusively to the e-mail address you provide. You can also place the order under another name, however, do not change your date of birth, as the results will be related to your gender and age.
How do I receive my results?
You will receive your results in a PDF document via email. If a test result is extremely low or high—requiring immediate medical attention—you will be contacted for a personal consultation before receiving the results. Other abnormal values are indicated by an upward arrow before the result for a high value and/or a downward arrow for a low value. A urine and/or blood test is a snapshot in time; sometimes it is advisable to repeat the tests—especially those showing room for improvement—after one month. If you have any medical concerns, you should always consult your primary care physician.
I’d like to discuss my results with a doctor. Is that possible?
Yes, you can visit your own doctor with the results. You can also request a consultation via our 'Extra services'. We have several internists and coaches with whom you can discuss your results and who can also help you with any problems/complaints you may have.
