The Link Between Prostate Cancer and Your Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Level

The problem with prostate cancer is that tests for it are not entirely accurate. Just because a person gets a negative test result doesn't mean that he is entirely free of the disease. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels of 4 g/L or more may indicate the presence of cancer. However, a study on various subjects with lower serum levels has revealed that there are still many individuals in this segment who do have prostate cancer.

To put it quite simply, while there is a real connection between PSA levels above 4 g/L, individuals with PSA levels below this threshold are in no way guaranteed not to have prostate cancer. These individuals are even in danger of getting prostate cancer that is in an advanced state where treatment becomes very difficult. Approximately one in eight individuals who tested negatively still has the potential to develop prostate cancer.

Prostate Cancer Detection Tips

While regular screening for prostate cancer is important for men, having negative results should not give them a false sense of security. They should always be on the lookout for telltale signs of the disease. This is never easy, though. Usually, the symptoms associated with prostate cancer are so subtle that many people will mistake them for other ailments. Below are some of the possible signs of prostate cancer.

Problems With Urination Do you have difficulty urinating? Do you have the constant urge to urinate, especially at night? Is the flow of your urine intermittent? Have you seen blood in your urine? All these could be possible indications of prostate cancer. If you encounter any of these indications, you should see your urologist immediately and schedule an exam.

Problems With Sexual Functions Do you have difficulty getting an erection? Do you have problems keeping an erection? Do you have problems ejaculating? All of these can also be signs of prostate cancer and should never be ignored. Men should also see their doctors about this.

Unusual Pains Do you feel pain in your lower abdomen? How about your hips? Any type of pain below the waist and above the knees could be signals of cancer cells spreading away from the prostate. This can be potentially dangerous and men who experience pain in these regions should seek an appointment with their doctors immediately.

Despite its prevalence, those diagnosed with prostate cancer at the early stages have a very good chance of recovering. This is why early discovery of prostate cancer is extremely important.