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PSA Clinic

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, and early detection is an essential tool for getting appropriate and timely treatment. Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center strongly recommends that men talk to their doctor about the risks and benefits of prostate screening.

Learn more about the recommended prostate cancer screening guidelines

For men who are at high risk for developing prostate cancer, the PSA Clinic at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center offers evidence-based, patient-centered multidisciplinary care through early detection and ongoing surveillance to ensure men get the treatment they need.

How are individuals referred to the PSA Clinic?

Most men are referred to the PSA Clinic because of elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and, sometimes, other risk factors. PSA measurements are a good tool to identify prostate cancer early, when it is treatable and curable.

If your primary care provider is concerned that you may have an elevated risk for prostate cancer, they can quickly and easily refer you to the PSA Clinic. Your doctor will take into account your PSA levels, physical exam findings and established risk factors when considering a referral.

Screening guidelines

You may qualify for care at the PSA Clinic if you meet any of these screening guidelines:

  • Your PSA is over 2.5, and you are under 60 years old
  • Your PSA is over 4.0 without other risk factors
  • Prostate nodule on rectal exam
  • Your PSA has doubled in 1 year
  • Your PSA has increased more than .75 while you’re taking testosterone
  • Your PSA is over 2.0 while you’re taking Finasteride
  • Detectable PSA with a history of prostate cancer and you’re not currently getting follow-up care

You may also qualify for care at the PSA Clinic if you are at high risk for prostate cancer:

Your PSA is over 1.5, and you have a family history of prostate cancer, or you are Black or African American

You have a strong family history of prostate cancer

You have a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer or a known BRCA gene mutation

What happens at the PSA Clinic?

Once you are referred to the PSA Clinic, you should be able to schedule an appointment as soon as you are available, usually within 1 to 3 business days. The care team will review factors such as your PSA levels, any previous biopsies or treatments, family history and risk factors. With that information, they will recommend an appropriate diagnostic pathway.

To arrive at an accurate diagnosis, they may recommend additional blood tests, imaging studies, a biopsy or a consultation with a urologist at the cancer center. If you need a biopsy, they will explain in detail how the procedure works, and what the results can show.

If needed, you may also be referred to the Prostate Cancer Multidisciplinary Clinic at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center for additional treatment.

Throughout the process, the PSA Clinic team will collaborate closely with your referring physician regarding your diagnosis and treatment plan.