How to Improve PSA Results

The PSA Test, or Prostate Specific Antigen Test, is a test performed on older males to determine their likelihood of developing prostate cancer. This test is controversial due to the high number of false-positives and false-negatives attributed to prostate cancer. There are a variety of methods you can use to improve your PSA score, many of which are simple.

Instructions

How to Improve PSA Results

• 1

  Understand your test result. A PSA lower than 4 is not usually considered risky. However, if the velocity number--that which determines how quickly your PSA is rising--is above 0.35 ng/ml (nanograms per milliliter), you may be at a higher risk and should be retested in six months.

• 2

  Avoid sexual activity or masturbation at least 24 hours prior to taking your PSA test. The PSA blood test measures the protein manufactured by the prostate gland and recent ejaculatory emissions can send your PSA higher than its true value.

• 3

  Avoid the rectal exam until after the PSA is conducted. A standard prostate screening involves both of these tests, but a rectal examination before the PSA test can inflate the number. Instruct your doctor to perform the PSA first.

• 4

  Make sure your doctor is using the Hybertech Assay--the biological testing procedure--to get your PSA results. As of November 2009, the Hybertech Assay was the only clinical trial approved by the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

• 5

  Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications. Some medications--especially those used to treat enlarged prostates--can falsely decrease a PSA score. Your doctor should be aware of all treatments prior to conducting the PSA test.

• 6

  Do not take the test if you currently have a urinary tract infection. This condition is known to falsely elevate your PSA score.