There are several tests available to help detect prostate cancer early, often before symptoms appear. Each test plays a different role in evaluating your risk and guiding next steps:

1. PSA Test

Prostate cancer screening usually begins with a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test, the most common initial screening tool. Although PSA levels can rise due to non-cancerous reasons like Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) or infection, a high or increasing PSA may warrant further evaluation.

2. Prostate MRI

If your PSA is elevated, a prostate MRI can often help provide a better assessment of your risk of having developed prostate cancer. MRI images show areas that may look suspicious and guide doctors on whether a biopsy is needed, helping avoid unnecessary procedures.

3. Biomarker & Blood Tests

Newer blood and urine tests such as the 4Kscore, SelectMDx and PCA3 can add more specific information about your cancer risk.
These are especially useful when PSA results are unclear or when trying to decide on a biopsy.

4. Prostate Biopsy

This is the only test that can definitively diagnose prostate cancer. A biopsy involves taking small samples of prostate tissue to examine under a microscope. Because it is invasive, screening tools are used first to determine who needs a biopsy.

Throughout the app, you’ll find more detailed explanations of each test, how they work, when they’re used, and what your results may mean. Use this information to feel more confident and prepared for conversations with your doctor.