Can alcohol increase the PSA level?
The consumption of alcohol has no direct influence on the PSA value and therefore does not lead to its increase. Contrary to earlier scientific views, however, recent research has shown that regular alcohol consumption, even in small amounts, increases the risk of developing prostate cancer. If a cancer develops in the prostate, the PSA level usually also increases. Therefore, long-term alcohol consumption can also increase the PSA level secondarily.
What if the PSA level is too low?
There is no lower limit for the PSA value that is to be considered questionable. Although there are reference values that are usually based on the average of healthy men in the various age groups, a value lower than this range has no medical significance. In some men, very little PSA is released into the blood, so the measured value is very low. Even after surgical removal of the prostate, the PSA level is usually below the reference or even detection range. Here too, the value is then not too low, but is considered normal.
Is there a PSA level in women?
The prostate specific antigen (PSA) on which the PSA value is based is almost exclusively produced by the prostate gland (prostate). Since this organ is only present in men, a determination of the PSA value in women is of no relevance. In some women, PSA is produced in small glands located next to the urethra and can be detected in small quantities in the urine. However, such measurements have only been carried out as part of studies and are of no relevance for the diagnosis and therapy of diseases. For women, a regular gynecological examination for cancer prevention is recommended instead of a urological examination.
What does a PSA value determination cost?
The cost of a PSA value determination varies and can range from 15€ to 45€. The best way to find out about the price is to contact your urologist directly as the doctor responsible for prostate diseases. In Germany, the costs for the PSA value determination within the framework of cancer screening are not covered by the statutory health insurance.
Private health insurances partly cover the costs, depending on the contract concluded. The statutory early detection program enables every man over 45 years of age to have an annual prostate examination, which is paid for by the insurance companies. If the treating physician (usually the urologist) finds abnormalities that should be further clarified, the PSA determination is also covered by the statutory health insurance. However, this is then no longer a screening procedure but a clarification examination.
