SELFCheck Prostate home PSA test is a simple blood test to accurately determine the health of your prostate gland.
This simple home health test can give you an idea of the health of your prostate and can even be an early warning sign for cancer. Recent clinical studies in Sweden found that if every man aged 45-49 were given a yearly PSA test, deaths as a result of prostate cancer could be halved.
PSA, Prostate Specific Antigen, is a chemical that appears in a man's bloodstream in higher concentrations when the prostate gland is enlarged or cancerous. although not a definite diagnosis of prostate cancer, a high PSA concentration can be a significant sign that something is not quite right and further tests may be necessary. Currently men over 50 are able to request a free PSA test, but the latest study in Sweden proved that screening men between the ages of 45 and 49 was the best way to catch prostate cancer early and prevent deaths.
It may be some time before the study influences changes in screening policies in the NHS, so if you want to keep an eye on your prostate you can do so at home with this simple finger-prick test from SELFCheck.
Your prostate influences your ability to urinate and can also affect your sexual activity, so if you've been having trouble passing your urine or had trouble in the bedroom it could be an early sign that your prostate is unhealthy. SELFCheck Prostate Kit is the perfect way to identify whether you have real reason to be concerned.
Why test for PSA levels?
PSA is a protein produced by the prostate and released into the blood stream in very small quantities. More PSA is released when there is a problem with the prostate. Prostate problems that result in PSA can be prostatitis, enlarged prostate (BPH benign prostatic hyperplasia) or prostate cancer.
Who is it for?
It is strongly recommended for men aged 40+
How to use your test
- Wash your hands, hold the lancet against your finger and press it to quickly and painlessly draw blood
- Use the enclosed dropper to place the blood onto the test kit
- Wait 90 seconds, then add the buffer solution
- After 10 minutes your result will appear
What is the interpretation of results?
Please note that lines can appear different shades. Providing that lines are unbroken and visible, results can be interpreted as below:
What is PSA level?
PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate gland and released into the blood stream in very small quantities. If there is a problem with the prostate, such as prostatitis, enlarged prostate or prostate cancer, the prostate will release larger amounts of PSA into the blood. This test tests positive when PSA levels go up above the norm.
BPH, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia is commonly known as enlarged prostate. It is common in older men. BPH can raise PSA levels and affect the bladder and urinary tract. Men with BPH may have difficulty urinating. If left untreated, it may also interfere with kidney function.
How often should PSA levels be checked?
Men over the age of 40 should perform this test regularly to detect potential signs of prostate problems early. Healthy individuals would benefit from annual checks.
What should you do if your PSA level is outside the norm?
In all cases, you should consult you doctor. Do not make any medical decisions without consulting your doctor.