Prostate health becomes increasingly important with age, particularly for men over 50. One of the most well-known tools in monitoring prostate health is the PSA test. This simple blood test can provide crucial insight into whether further investigation may be necessary, particularly when it comes to prostate cancer and other prostate conditions. At 108 Harley Street, our urology specialists guide patients through every step of the diagnostic process with clarity, discretion, and expert care.
This article aims to explain what a PSA test is, how it works, what the results mean, and what you can expect if your PSA levels are elevated.
What is a PSA Test?
PSA stands for Prostate-Specific Antigen, a protein produced by both normal and cancerous cells in the prostate gland. A small amount of PSA circulates in the bloodstream, and measuring this level can help indicate whether there may be changes in the prostate that require further examination.
The PSA test is a simple blood test typically taken from the arm. It’s not a diagnostic test for prostate cancer, but rather a screening tool that helps determine whether additional assessments such as MRI or biopsy may be necessary.
Why PSA Testing is Important After 50
As men age, the risk of developing prostate conditions rises. In particular:
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) becomes common in men over 50
- Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) may also occur
- The likelihood of prostate cancer increases significantly with age, especially after 50
Early-stage prostate cancer often shows no symptoms, making proactive testing one of the few ways to detect it before it progresses.
What Does the PSA Test Involve?
The test itself is straightforward:
- No fasting or special preparation is typically required
- A healthcare professional draws a small sample of blood
- The sample is analysed in a laboratory to measure your PSA level
At 108 Harley Street, results are usually returned quickly, and any concerns or next steps are discussed with a consultant urologist. We offer a supportive, patient-first environment to ensure all your questions are answered with clarity and care.
What is Considered a Normal PSA Level?
There is no universally fixed “normal” PSA level, but as a general guide:
| Age Range | Typical PSA Level (ng/mL) |
| 40–49 | 0.0 to 2.5 |
| 50–59 | 0.0 to 3.5 |
| 60–69 | 0.0 to 4.5 |
| 70–79 | 0.0 to 6.5 |
However, these figures can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Prostate size (larger prostates produce more PSA)
- Recent sexual activity
- Prostatitis or urinary tract infections
- Certain medical procedures or prostate stimulation
That’s why interpreting PSA results should always be done by an experienced specialist, not in isolation.
What Happens If My PSA Level Is High?
A raised PSA level does not automatically mean cancer. In fact, most men with high PSA do not have prostate cancer. Some possible explanations for elevated PSA include:
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)
- Prostatitis (inflammation)
- Recent ejaculation or vigorous exercise
- Urinary retention
- Recent catheter use or prostate examination
If your PSA level is higher than expected for your age, your consultant may recommend:
- Repeating the test after a short interval
- A digital rectal examination (DRE) to feel for abnormalities
- A multiparametric MRI scan to assess the prostate’s structure
- In some cases, a prostate biopsy may be suggested to obtain tissue samples
Benefits of PSA Testing
- Early detection: Identifies potential problems before symptoms arise
- Monitoring: Helps track prostate health over time
- Risk assessment: Aids in making informed decisions about further testing or treatment
At 108 Harley Street, our consultants work with each patient individually to interpret results in context, avoiding unnecessary worry and ensuring that any intervention is evidence-based.
Are There Any Limitations to PSA Testing?
Yes. While PSA testing is useful, it’s important to understand its limitations:
- False positives: Elevated PSA may not mean cancer
- False negatives: Low PSA levels do not guarantee the absence of cancer
- Overdiagnosis: Some prostate cancers are so slow-growing they may never cause harm, but diagnosis can still lead to anxiety or overtreatment
This is why PSA screening should not be done in isolation. It works best as part of a comprehensive approach involving clinical consultation, family history review, and potentially imaging or biopsy.
When Should You Get a PSA Test?
Current UK guidelines suggest that men aged 50 and over who are concerned about prostate cancer should be able to request a PSA test after discussing the benefits and risks with their GP or a specialist.
However, men at higher risk may be encouraged to consider testing earlier. This includes:
- Men with a family history of prostate or breast cancer (BRCA mutation)
- Men of Black African or Caribbean descent, who have a higher incidence of prostate cancer
- Those with certain genetic markers or a history of elevated PSA
At 108 Harley Street, patients can self-refer for a consultation or PSA test. Our urology team provides a seamless, respectful experience from consultation through to diagnosis and treatment if needed.
What Should I Do Next?
If you’re a man over 50, or younger with relevant risk factors, it’s worth having a conversation about your prostate health. A PSA test is a simple step that could offer valuable insight and peace of mind.
At 108 Harley Street, our consultant-led approach ensures that every result is interpreted with care, precision, and consideration of your overall health. Should you need further investigation or treatment, you’ll have access to the latest imaging, surgical expertise, and multidisciplinary care.
Book a Consultation
To discuss PSA testing, prostate symptoms, or any concerns about your urinary or sexual health, you can book a confidential consultation with our expert urologists.
