What does a Prostate Specific Antigen Screen test for?

The Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test is primarily utilized to screen for prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland. Elevated levels of PSA in the blood can indicate the presence of prostate cancer, although they may also be influenced by other conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis. Because of its specificity to the prostate, the primary purpose of the PSA test is to help detect potential prostate cancer in men, especially those who are at higher risk due to age or family history. This focus on prostate health makes it clear why the answer relating to prostate cancer is the correct one.