PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test

Measures prostate-specific antigen — the primary screening marker for prostate conditions including prostate cancer, the most common cancer in Australian men (approximately 1 in 6 lifetime risk). PSA is produced exclusively by prostate tissue, and elevated levels can indicate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostatitis. While not diagnostic alone, PSA provides the data point that triggers further investigation when elevated.

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is produced exclusively by prostate tissue, making it the primary screening marker for prostate conditions including prostate cancer — the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men, with approximately 1 in 6 facing a lifetime diagnosis. While not diagnostic on its own, PSA provides the critical data point that triggers further investigation. PSA levels can be elevated by prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, recent ejaculation, vigorous cycling, and urinary tract infections. This lack of specificity means that an elevated PSA does not equal cancer — but it does warrant clinical attention. Conversely, a low and stable PSA is reassuring. The trend over time is often more informative than a single reading, which is why serial testing through a platform like ClearLabs — where results are tracked on a digital dashboard — adds value beyond a one-off GP test. Current Australian guidelines recommend that men discuss PSA testing with their doctor from age 50, or from age 40-45 if there is a family history of prostate cancer or known genetic risk factors (BRCA2 carriers have a significantly elevated risk). The test is most useful as part of a longitudinal screening strategy rather than a one-time check. ClearLabs requires no GP referral to order this test. A morning blood draw is recommended, and you should avoid ejaculation, vigorous cycling, or prostate examination for 48 hours before the test, as these can temporarily elevate PSA. Results are delivered within 2-3 business days through a confidential digital dashboard.