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PSA and what you should know about it PSA
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June is Men's Health Month, and a crucial part of that is prostate health awareness.The prostate is a small gland in men that sits below the bladder and produces seminal fluid. 

 
One tool for prostate health screening is the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test. A PSA test is a simple blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. 
 
Genetics Behind PSA
Genetics plays a significant role in how your body produces PSA, which can affect PSA test results. Here's a breakdown of the genetic influences:
 
  • KLK3 Gene: This gene specifically codes for the production of PSA. Variations in this gene can lead to naturally higher or lower PSA levels even in healthy men.
  • Multiple Loci: Researchers have identified over 40 different locations (loci) in the genome that influence PSA levels.These variations are often subtle, but combined, they can significantly impact a man's baseline PSA.
  • Heredity: A family history of prostate cancer can also be linked to PSA levels. Genes like BRCA1, BRCA2, and HOXB13, associated with hereditary prostate cancer risk, might also influence PSA production.

Here are some key things to know about PSA levels:

  • A PSA level of 4 ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter) or lower is generally considered normal.
  • A PSA level between 4 and 10 ng/mL is considered borderline and may warrant further testing.
  • A PSA level of 10 ng/mL or higher is considered high and may indicate prostate cancer, although there are other possible explanations.
It's important to remember that a PSA test is not a perfect test for prostate cancer, hence integrating genetic information into PSA test interpretation is ideal. As there are other reasons why a PSA level might be elevated, such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, an enlargement of the prostate).
 
Early detection is key to successful management of prostate health and treatment in case of prostate cancer, so don't ignore any symptoms that you may be experiencing. 
 
Lets collectively focus more on spreading such awareness, for protecting our loved ones.

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