Published June 6, 2026

For many men, prostate health is a topic that gets ignored until bathroom habits change or a routine physical brings up screening. But waiting for symptoms to appear means missing the window for early detection. In this Q&A, Dr. Kruzel addresses common questions about the prostate gland, explains why a baseline PSA test is a powerful tool for tracking changes over time, and arms you with “red flag” symptoms and conversation starters so you can confidently manage your health alongside your doctor.

Q: What is the prostate, and why does it become a health concern as men age?

A: The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland located deep in the male pelvis, situated directly below the bladder and in front of the rectum. As a key part of the male reproductive system, its primary job is to produce the fluid that nourishes, protects, and transports sperm.

The prostate surrounds the urethra—the tube that carries urine out of the bladder. Any change in the size of the gland directly affects how men go to the bathroom. As men age, the prostate can enlarge, leading to symptoms like

• A weak or slow urinary stream
• Difficulty starting to urinate
• A feeling that your bladder isn't completely emptying
• Frequent waking at night to urinate

While a growing prostate is common and often due to benign (non-cancerous) changes, it can also be a sign of an infection or a more serious underlying condition. If you notice any changes in your normal bathroom habits, it’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider.

Q: We hear about “PSA” all the time in men’s health, but what is it, and what does the PSA test actually measure?

A: PSA stands for Prostate-Specific Antigen, a protein that is secreted into the blood stream by the tissues of the prostate. A PSA test, like the Prostate Screening (PSA) test at questhealth.com, is a simple blood test that measures the levels of prostate-specific antigen in your blood.

Tracking your PSA levels is one of the most effective tools we have for monitoring overall prostate health, because sudden shifts can indicate an underlying issue. However, an elevated PSA doesn’t instantly point to a serious disease. Your levels can temporarily spike due to everyday activities or minor conditions, such as

• Recent sexual activity or ejaculation
• Recent bicycle riding (which puts pressure on the gland)
• Prostate inflammation or a urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), which is the medical term for a standard, non-cancerous enlarged prostate

Q: Prostate cancer is often called a “silent” disease. Why is the PSA test so important for early detection?

A: The reason why prostate cancer is often referred to as a “silent” disease is because, in its earliest, most treatable stages, it usually causes no physical symptoms. You can feel entirely healthy and not have any idea that something is wrong. A prostate screening (PSA) test is usually the only way to catch abnormalities early.

Thankfully, prostate cancer is quite rare in younger men. For those with an average risk, the USPSTF recommends screening men ages 55+ for prostate cancer. However, if you are experiencing urinary changes or have a strong family history of the disease, combining a lab test with an open conversation with your doctor is a powerful first step to assessing your risk.

It’s important to note that screening guidelines are regularly reviewed and updated as new clinical data emerges, so it’s always best to check with your personal healthcare provider for the most up-to-date recommendations.

Q: There is often debate about when to start screening. Who should get a PSA test and at what age?

A: If you are experiencing any active symptoms—like difficulty urinating or initiating a stream, frequently waking up at night to urinate, or feeling like you’re not able to fully empty your bladder—you should speak to a doctor about getting tested right away, regardless of your age.

While there is some debate about when to start screening, screening is generally not necessary for men under 40 due to false positives.

The American Urological Association recommends a more individualized approach to PSA testing: high-risk patients can start with a baseline, biannual PSA screening at age 40. “High-risk” is defined by men with black ancestry, a germline mutation, or a strong family history of prostate cancer.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPFTF), a scientifically independent volunteer panel of national experts in disease prevention and evidence-based medicine, is currently reviewing the guidelines for prostate screening. As they stand today, USPSTF recommends that each individual makes their own decision about whether to undergo periodic prostate-specific antigen (PSA)-based screening after a conversation with their clinician.

It should also be noted that men age 70+ with a history of low, stable PSA levels, or men ages 75+ with a PSA <3ng/ml, should consult their provider on whether they should be screened for PSA.

Q: If a man takes a PSA test and the results come back “elevated,” does that automatically mean he has cancer?

A: Absolutely not. An elevated PSA level is an indicator that your prostate is irritated or growing, but it is not a definitive diagnosis of cancer.

As mentioned earlier, highly treatable conditions like a localized infection, prostate inflammation (prostatitis), or standard BPH are common culprits behind an elevated PSA. Even a long bike ride or intimacy within a few hours of your blood draw can cause a temporary, harmless spike.

This is why it’s important to know your baseline PSA level. By tracking your PSA scores over time, your doctor can calculate how quickly your levels are changing, rather than a single snapshot. If your numbers remain high, there are several highly specific secondary tests your doctor can use to pinpoint the exact cause.

Q: We know genetics play a role, but are there lifestyle choices that can impact prostate health?

A: While genetics and family history are strong factors that play a role in prostate health, your daily habits play a significant role in supporting your system. The best lifestyle choices for your prostate are the same ones that protect your heart and metabolic health:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Clinical data shows a strong association between obesity and an increased risk of developing more aggressive forms of prostate cancer
• Exercise regularly: Staying physically active helps regulate hormone levels and lowers systemic inflammation
• Eat a balanced diet: Focus on whole foods while reducing heavily processed options, added sugars, and trans fats to keep your cellular health optimal as you age