Men taking the time to educate themselves on how to live healthier lives as much as women do is critical to their well-being. As men get older knowing the status of their prostate health for preventative measures could be beneficial in the long run. There are lifestyle moves you can make now to further lower the chances of developing prostate cancer. About the age of 50 men are most at risk for prostate cancer and should be scheduling prostate screenings every 2-4 years. In African-American men, a prostate exam should be scheduled even sooner.
What are PSA levels and why are they important? PSA or Prostate-specific antigen is a protein produced by the prostate gland. PSA level is detected in the blood and measured in nanograms per milliliter or ng/mL. PSA levels should remain between 0 and 2.5 ng/mL and 2.6 to 4.0 ng/mL is considered to be satisfactory in most men, although, to be safe it is suggested to discuss risk factors with your doctor. As PSA levels increase to 4.0 to 10.0 ng/mL a doctor may suggest this indicates the possibility of prostate cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, as the PSA level increases so does the chance of prostate cancer. However, just because a high level of PSA is present in the blood doesn’t necessarily mean you have prostate cancer; This increase can also indicate an enlarged prostate. Additionally, a lower PSA level does not always put men in the clear for no prostate cancer. The American Cancer Society reveals that 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime.
What influences change in PSA level? As men get older, PSA levels tend to gradually rise over time. Men who are overweight, take cholesterol medications, and take aspirin will see a fluctuation in their PSA levels. Men with larger prostates may have a higher PSA level. Infection of the urinary tract can increase PSA levels if the prostate is irritated by the bladder and urethra.
There are some natural ways to take lowering the PSA levels in your prostate in your own hands such as:
Getting more exercise
Reducing stress
Drinking green tea
Eating healthier
Making these lifestyle enhancements can decrease the risk of heightened PSA levels and presence of prostate cancer. The sooner you are in the know, the better prepared you are for treatment if cancer is detected. If you are over the age of 45, consider having this significant conversation with your physician about possible PSA level screening.