Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. It usually develops slowly, so there may be no signs for many years.**
A simple prostate test can be done at home and will give you an indication of how healthy your prostate is and is even an early indicator for cancer. Swedish clinical studies have recently discovered that when men between the ages of 45-49 get PSA tests annually, prostate cancer deaths can be cut by 50%.
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is a chemical found in the bloodstream of men who have elevated levels if the prostate gland is cancerous or enlarged. Even though the test isn’t a definitive diagnosis of prostate cancer, increased PSA levels show that there is something wrong that warrants further investigation. Men 50 years and older can get a free PSA test, but as per the recent Swedish study, when men are screened from 45 to 49 years old, there is an increased chance of detecting prostate cancer early and to prevent deaths.
Your prostate affects your ability to urinate and will also impact your sex life, therefore if you are having difficulty peeing or problems sexually this might be an early indicator that your prostate is not healthy. The Zoom Health Prostate Kit will show if you have anything to be concerned about.
Why Do PSA Tests?
PSA is a protein made by the prostate and circulated into the blood in minute amounts. Extra PSA is circulated if there is a dilemma with the prostate. Prostate difficulties that lead to PSA could be prostatitis, swollen prostate or even prostate cancer.
What is PSA Level?
PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) is a protein generated by the prostate gland and circulated into the blood in minuscule portions. When there is any trouble with the prostate, like prostatitis, swollen prostate or prostate cancer, the prostate is going to discharge bigger quantities of PSA into the blood stream. This test produces a positive result if PSA amounts increase above the usual amounts.
How Often Should You Check PSA Levels?
Men 40 and older should have the test done annually so that any prostate related problems can be detected early.
If Your PSA Level is Elevated, What Should You Do?
See your doctor immediately. Before you make any drastic medical decisions, always consult with your doctor first.
In addition to getting a PSA test, there are lifestyle changes you can make to support prostate health. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is beneficial. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in zinc like oysters and pumpkin seeds may help. Avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol, and limiting consumption of charred or processed meats can reduce cancer risk. Supplements like saw palmetto and lycopene may also promote prostate wellness, though more research is needed. Making positive lifestyle adjustments combined with regular prostate screenings gives you the best chance of detecting any issues early.
Photo “Prostate Health” by Anthony Cunningham for Zoom Health
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