Every male makes prostate specific antigen (PSA). PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. The amount you're producing is one variable healthcare providers consider when evaluating your overall health. In particular, a PSA test is one of the most common methods for prostate cancer screening.

In this blog, learn more about what is generally considered an abnormal PSA level, other potential causes of elevated PSA levels, what a PSA test, and why men need it.

Read our blog, Is Prostate Cancer Curable?

What is a Normal PSA Level?

"Normal" isn't always the best word to use when it comes to your health because everyone can be a little different, and they might all still be healthy!

However, there are general guidelines we can consider when it comes to normal PSA levels. Johns Hopkins Medicine says that for men in their 40s and 50s, the median PSA is 0.6 to 0.7 ng/ml. For men in their 60s, the normal range for PSA levels is 1.0 to 1.5 ng/ml.

What Are Considered Elevated PSA Levels?

Again, we have to consider age ranges. For men in their 40s and 50s, PSA levels above 2.5 ng/ml are considered high. For men in their 60s, 4.0 ng/ml or greater indicates elevated PSA levels.

What does it all mean?

Do Elevated PSA Levels Indicate the Presence of Prostate Cancer?

If your PSA test comes back saying you have elevated PSA levels, don't panic! This does not automatically mean that you have prostate cancer.

While a PSA test is commonly used to screen for prostate cancer, there are other potential causes of elevated PSA levels, not just prostate cancer.

• Age and ethnicity can have an impact on your PSA levels. Older men typically have slightly higher PSA levels, in general.

• Since the prostate gland produces PSA, an enlarged prostate may produce more PSA. This is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and it's common in men over the age of 50.

• Irritation of the urinary tract, in addition to urinary tract infections (UTIs), can lead to elevated PSA levels.

• Certain medications can cause fluctuations in your PSA levels.

• If you're experiencing prostatitis, you may have a swollen or tender prostate gland. Another symptom is elevated PSA levels.

This list isn't exhaustive, but hopefully demonstrates that an elevated PSA can very well be a result of noncancerous conditions. Take note of any prostate symptoms, like difficulty urinating or ejaculating. This is valuable information for healthcare providers. Your provider will work with you to better understand the results of your PSA test.

Early Detection of High PSA

The American Cancer Society says that second to skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men. In 2025, they project approximately 313,780 new cases of prostate cancer and around 35,770 deaths due to prostate cancer. While the rate of prostate cancer decreased significantly between 2007 and 2014, this was likely due to fewer men receiving a screening test because the recommendations changed. And, since 2014, the incidence rate has gone up by 3% each year.

This is why prostate cancer screening is so important to detect elevated PSA levels as soon as possible. Thankfully, this is a simple blood test!

eNational Testing’s Men's Prostate Health Panel uses a blood test to measure PSA levels. The results are delivered within one business day. We have more than 2,700 locations nationwide, making PSA screening quick, convenient, and accessible. We even offer same-day appointments. Find a testing center near you.

The Prostate Health Index (PHI) test

The Prostate Health Index test is newer and could be even more accurate than the standard PSA test. PHI measures three types of PSA—free PSA, total PSA, and proPSA—to give you a phi score. The purpose of this test is to try to account for some of the variables we mentioned earlier, like age, that can cause your PSA levels to go up. In other words, it's designed to more quickly and accurately diagnose or rule out prostate cancer.

Other Methods of Prostate Cancer Screening

The PSA test isn't the only way to check your PSA levels. A digital rectal exam, prostate biopsy, and various imaging tests can all help to diagnose prostate cancer (or rule it out). A digital rectal exam is a manual exam that allows the provider to feel for any abnormalities. A prostate biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample to check for the presence of cancer cells in the tissue. Imaging tests include a bone scan, tomography scan, and PET scan.

It's most common to start with a PSA test, since it's quick, easy, and less invasive. Checking your prostate specific antigen via a blood draw is also a great way to be proactive about your health. Men with no symptoms commonly undergo PSA screening.

In other words, don't wait until you start to experience symptoms to get a PSA blood test. You should start around the age of 50 and receive a PSA test every two to three years. If your provider feels you're at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer, they might ask you to start earlier and/or get tested more frequently.

Get Your Prostate Specific Antigen Checked Today

Remember, elevated PSA levels don't necessarily mean that a prostate cancer diagnosis is coming next. Be proactive about getting a PSA test at the frequency your provider recommends, always stay ahead of your health, and your PSA levels won't catch you by surprise.

If you're ready for your next PSA test, eNational Testing can help. Find a testing center near you or contact us with any questions.