PSA, Total

Routine annual

also prostate-specific antigen

What it isPSA is an enzyme produced almost exclusively by prostate cells. Small amounts leak into the bloodstream normally; more leaks when the prostate is inflamed, enlarged, or has cancer.

DoesLiquefies semen physiologically; serves as a tumor marker for prostate cancer.

GoodA low, stable PSA tracks the absence of clinically significant prostate cancer.

BadRising or elevated PSA flags benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis, or prostate cancer. PSA velocity and density add specificity beyond the single number.

Standard

<4.0 ng/mL.

Optimal

0–1.0 ng/mL in 40s, 0–1.5 ng/mL in 50s (lower is good)

Modifiers

Rises with age, ejaculation within 48 hours, prostate manipulation, cycling, infection; lowered by 5α-reductase inhibitors (multiply by 2).

How to optimize

Lifestyle: Maintain sexual activity; Zone 2 cardio; weight loss; quit smoking; avoid cycling 2 days before testing.
Diet: Cut saturated fat and dairy in some; lycopene-rich foods (cooked tomatoes); cruciferous vegetables.
Supplements: Lycopene (10–20mg/day), vitamin D3, omega-3 EPA+DHA (2–4g/day), curcumin (500mg 2×/day), saw palmetto for BPH.
Peptides: —
Drugs: Finasteride/dutasteride lower PSA ~50% (adjust accordingly); tamsulosin for BPH symptoms.

within Men's Hormones