Free PSA Test

What is a free PSA test?

Prostate cancer is a critical medical condition that may turn dangerous. The term PSA stands for prostate specific antigen. Our body produces PSA in parts of the urinary system and prostate gland. PSA is a specific type of enzyme that binds with proteins in the semen and breaks it down. Firstly PSA is produced in the prostate gland and then it is released in the semen. The levels of PSA in an individual’s body may vary based on the person’s age and some other factors. The main objective of performing a free PSA test is to determine the presence of prostate cancer in an individual’s body. The prostate specific antigen test cost is very reasonable these days.

What is prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is a specific type of cancer that takes place and grows in the gland cells of the prostate. Although difficulty in urination is considered as a major sign of prostate cancer, however, sometimes prostate cancer generates no symptoms at all.

Which factors can affect the PSA levels in the body?

The factors that may affect the PSA levels in the body includes,

• Prostate stimulation
• Enlarged prostate gland
• Anal sex
• Vigorous exercise
• Prostate surgery
• Urinary tract infections
• Prostate infections
• Ejaculation
• Hepatitis
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia
• Obesity
• Pressure on the prostate
• Digital rectal examination

When to go for a free PSA test?

When the medical experts feel the need to determine the presence of prostate cancer in your body, then they can suggest you to go for a free PSA test. As mentioned before, A free PSA test can help to detect issues in the prostate including prostate cancer. Sometimes the free PSA test is also suggested instead of a biopsy if the PSA levels in an individual’s body is slightly elevated.

What is the difference between a PSA test and a free PSA test?

There is a difference between PSA and free PSA tests. The PSA test measures both of the free and bound PSA and this is why this test is also called total PSA, on the other hand, a free PSA test only measures the unbound PSA in the bloodstream.

Test preparations

It is necessary to avoid having sex or musterbation for at least 24 hours before the sample collection process takes place. However, it would be a wise step if you consult briefly with your doctor or the experienced healthcare professionals to know if there are some more guidelines to be followed while appearing for the test. Also, do not forget to mention if you are already on medication before the test starts.

Are there any risks associated with this test?

You may feel a bit of bruising and discomfort at that particular area from which the blood sample has been collected by the medical professional using a syringe. However, these kinds of discomforts are very temporary and usually go away with time. You can consult a doctor if you feel any other type of uneasiness during or after the blood collection process.

Sample requirements

Your blood sample is needed for this test. One healthcare professional will be collecting a certain amount of blood from your arm. After the blood sample collection process is done, the healthcare professional will send the sample to the laboratory and the test will be performed on that blood sample.