PSA test
A blood test for prostate cancer screening - with real benefits and real downsides worth discussing first.
TypeBlood test
HowStandard blood draw.
How oftenEvery 1–2 years if you choose to screen.
BeforeAvoid ejaculation and cycling for 48 hours before.
WhoMen 55–69 after discussion; earlier (40–45) with family history or Black ancestry.
Why it’s a decision, not a default
PSA can find prostate cancer early - but also finds slow cancers that would never cause harm, leading to treatment side effects.
Benefit
“Can it save lives?”
Screening modestly reduces prostate cancer deaths.
Real benefit
Downside
“What’s the catch?”
False alarms, biopsies, and treatment for cancers that didn’t need it.
Overdiagnosis
Smarter follow-up
“Is it better now?”
MRI before biopsy and active monitoring reduce harm.
Improving
Is it right for you?
Worth considering if…
- You’re 55–69 and want to discuss screening.
- You have a father or brother with prostate cancer.
- You’re of Black ancestry.
A better option if…
- You’re over 70 - benefit is smaller.
How it’s measured
PSA blood test
The standard first step.
Prostate MRI
Used after a raised PSA.
The full picture
What is it?
A blood test for prostate-specific antigen.
What type of test is it?
A blood biomarker.
What does it measure?
PSA concentration.
Why might someone consider it?
To screen for prostate cancer.
Who is it most relevant for?
Men 55–69 after discussion, earlier with risk.
How is it performed?
A blood draw.
How often might it be considered?
Every 1–2 years if screening.
What can the result help you understand?
Whether further tests are needed.
What are its limitations?
Raised by enlargement, infection and activity; overdiagnosis.
What should it be viewed with?
Age, family history, MRI and prostate size.
Where to get it
Through your provider
Your primary care provider can order or refer.
Screening programmes
Many health systems offer dedicated screening.
Specialist clinics
For higher-risk or follow-up testing.
Names are examples only, not endorsements. Your provider can often order the same test - and help interpret it.
Connected to
Questions to ask your provider
- Should I be screened given my risk?
- What happens if my PSA is raised?
Ziva Health
One test is a snapshot. Ziva shows the whole story.
Ziva brings your lab results, wearables and daily readings together - and Isabella tells you what’s changing and what to ask your provider next.
Refer Ziva to my provider / care team
Is your provider not on Ziva yet? Send them a link in under a minute - once they join, they’ll see your PSA test result alongside your other trends and get alerts directly.
Refer my providerAlready seeing your provider?
Bring your Ziva 30-day report to your next appointment - your PSA test result and daily trends in one view, so the conversation starts with the full picture.
Get my 30-day reportNo provider? Find a clinical partner
Being listed doesn’t mean everyone needs this test. Educational only — not medical advice. Results should be interpreted with a qualified clinician. ← Back to Know What to Test