Risk of cancer

PSA is an enzyme produced almost exclusively by the glandular cells of the prostate. It is secreted during ejaculation into the prostatic ducts that empty into the urethra. PSA liquefies semen after ejaculation so that sperm are released. Normally, only very small amounts of PSA are present in the blood. But an abnormality of the prostate can disrupt the normal architecture of the gland and create an opening for PSA to pass into the blood stream. Thus, high blood levels of PSA can indicate the presence of cancer. The percentage risks of cancer based on PSA levels are as follows:

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• PSA levels under 4 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) are "normal" at age 50 and older; levels below 2.5 ng/mL are "normal" at age 40 to 49. These levels are associated with less than a 15 percent to 19 percent risk of cancer;
• 4 to 10 ng/mL, 20 percent to 30 percent risk;
• 10 to 20 ng/mL, 50 percent to 75 percent risk;
• above 20 ng/mL, 90 percent risk.