Cancer Tests

The Importance of PSA Testing The Prostate-specific antigen or PSA test is a blood test that can be used as a measurement of prostate health. According to a March 2009 European study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (1), the PSA test is not only a valid screening test for prostate cancer but could also significantly reduces mortality from this disease in middle-aged men. Table of Contents The Importance of PSA Testing What is a PSA Test? Elevated Prostate Specific Antigen The Significance of Free PSA What if the Test Shows an Elevated PSA level? Getting Tested The PSA Controversy What is a PSA Test? The PSA test was initially approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1986 to track the progression of prostate cancer in individuals who have been previously diagnosed with the disease. In 1994, the use of the PSA test together with a digital rectal exam (DRE) was approved by the FDA to test asymptomatic men for prostate cancer. Men who experience prostate symptoms will usually undergo a PSA test (with a DRE) to help a urologist determine what’s causing the problem. Elevated Prostate Specific Antigen Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein secreted by healthy, as well as cancerous cells in the prostate gland. A PSA test is commonly used to measure the level of this protein in someone’s blood. This test is conducted by taking a blood sample and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. PSA test results are typically recorded as nanograms of PSA per milliliter (ng/mL) of blood. In men with prostate cancer, the blood level of PSA is frequently elevated. Although research does indicate that having an elevated PSA level does not always mean that a man has prostate cancer (2). PSA levels may also become elevated because of benign enlargement of the prostate gland as well as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) due to infection. It’s crucial to emphasize that a PSA test is not a specific prostate cancer test, but it’s a critical first step in checking for the possible presence of prostate cancer. There are other factors that could cause your PSA levels to increase (3): Advancing age; PSA levels tend to rise with age. Inflammation of the prostate gland, from either infection or some other undetermined cause. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); also called an enlarged prostate. A larger prostate has more cells secreting PSA, increasing the odds for an elevated PSA level. Prostate cells could be inflamed by a Urinary tract infection, causing PSA levels to go up. Ejaculation can cause a mild elevation in the PSA score, but levels return to normal after only a few days. The recommendation is that men abstain from sex for at least 48 hours before PSA testing Anything that might cause trauma to the prostate like; bike riding, catheter insertion into the bladder, prostate biopsy, or cystoscopy can temporarily increase PSA levels. Conversely, some medicines (Proscar, Avodart, Propecia) (4) could lower your PSA. If you’re taking any of these medications, you should advise your doctor. A PSA level of less than 4.0 ng/mL is considered to be normal, but changes of more than 2.0 ng/mL over a year may indicate that prostate cancer is present (5). The Significance of Free PSA PSA circulates through the body in two ways; bound to other proteins or by itself. Unbound PSA is called free PSA. A free-PSA test will measure the percentage of unbound PSA while a PSA test is used to measure the total of free and bound PSA in the blood (6). The free PSA is a defective variant of normal PSA that can no longer bind to other proteins and so circulates in the blood in the free form. Although the reason why is poorly understood - patients with cancer may have lower free PSA levels than those with a benign prostate condition (6). What if the Test Shows an Elevated PSA level? If someone who isn’t experiencing the symptoms of prostate cancer decides to take a PSA test and discovers that he has an elevated PSA level the urologist could advise him to take another PSA test to confirm the original result. When results show that the PSA level is still elevated, the doctor could then recommend that he continue to be tested and digitally examined at regular intervals to detect changes (if any) over time (6). When the PSA level continues to rise or if a lump is detected during a digital examination, additional tests could be prescribed to discover possible causes (7). These tests can include: Urine test to check for a urinary tract infection Transrectal ultrasound X-rays Cystoscopy If the doctor suspects prostate cancer is present, then a prostate biopsy may be recommended. This procedure is used to collect multiple samples of prostate tissue by inserting hollow needles into the prostate gland and then withdrawing them. Frequently, the needles will be inserted through the wall of the rectum in a procedure called a transrectal biopsy. A pathologist then studies the collected prostate tissue with a microscope. An ultrasound may also be used to view the prostate during the biopsy, although ultrasound alone can’t be used to make a prostate cancer diagnosis. Getting Tested The accepted recommendation is that once a man reaches 40 years of age, he should begin having his prostate checked to establish a baseline for future monitoring. With a baseline set, the doctor can act quickly if PSA level changes indicate a potential problem (8). Unfortunately, many men underestimate the importance of setting a PSA baseline from a younger age. Establishing your baseline PSA level means that if there is even a small change in PSA levels - your doctor can quickly begin the necessary procedures to find out what may be causing the change and commence proper treatment if it’s indicated, possibly saving your life (9). The PSA Controversy The PSA test is not a cancer test. The test is only used to determine the level of PSA in a man’s blood. A high PSA score may indicate the presence of prostate cancer – but there are many factors that can cause PSA levels to be elevated, from infection to resent ejaculation. Another problem is that the PSA test also cannot distinguish between elevated PSA as a result of a benign cancer that will pose no threat in the course of a normal lifetime, or from the presence of an aggressive tumor that poses a much more immediate threat (10). Regardless, current research still indicates that PSA is a valid and proven marker that can be used together with other variables for determining the chance that an aggressive prostate cancer is present (10). References 1) SchröderFH,Hugosson J,Roobol MJ, et al.Screening and prostate cancer mortality in a randomized European study, N Engl J Med, 2009, vol. 360 13(pg. 1320-1328). 2) O'Shaughnessy M, Konety B, Warlick C. Prostate cancer screening: issues and controversies. Minnesota Medicine, August 2010. 3) Mayo Clinic Staff. PSA Test. (N.D.). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/psa-test/details/risks/cmc-20200313 4) Pannek J, Marks LS, Pearson JD, Rittenhouse HG, Chan DW, Shery ED, Gormley GJ, Subong EN, Kelley CA, Stoner E, Partin AW. Influence of finasteride on free and total serum prostate specific antigen levels in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. The Journal of Urology. 1998. 5) Carter, H. Ballentine et al. “Detection of Life-Threatening Prostate Cancer With Prostate-Specific Antigen Velocity During a Window of Curability.” Journal of the National Cancer Institute 98.21 (2006): 1521–1527. PMC. Web. 24 Nov. 2017. 6) Mione R1, Barioli P, Barichello M, Zattoni F, Prayer-Galetti T, Plebani M, Aimo G, Terrone C, Manferrari F, Madeddu G, Caberlotto L, Fandella A, Pianon C, Vianello L, Gion M. Prostate cancer probability after total PSA and percent free PSA determination. Int J Biol Markers. 1998 Apr-Jun;13(2):77-86. 7) Wilt, Timothy J et al. “Prostate Cancer: Epidemiology and Screening.” Reviews in Urology 5.Suppl 6 (2003): S3–S9. Print. 8) Larsen, Signe Benzon et al. “Baseline PSA Measurements and Subsequent Prostate Cancer Risk in the Danish Diet, Cancer and Health Cohort.” European journal of cancer (Oxford, England : 1990) 49.14 (2013): 3041–3048. PMC. Web. 24 Nov. 2017. 9) Weight, Christopher J. et al. “Men (Aged 40–49 Years) With a Single Baseline Prostate-Specific Antigen Below 1.0 ng/mL Have a Very Low Long-Term Risk of Prostate Cancer: Results From a Prospectively Screened Population Cohort.” Urology 82.6 (2013): 1211–1217. PMC. Web. 24 Nov. 2017. 10) H Ballentine Carter. Differentiation of lethal and non lethal prostate cancer: PSA and PSA isoforms and kinetics. Asian Journal of Andrology. 2012 May; 14(3): 355–360.  

Essential Tips for PSA Test Preparation Key Highlights A PSA test is a blood test that measures level of PSA in blood, which can screen for prostate cancer. Early detection of prostate cancer is important for successful treatment and a PSA test can help identify potential risks. Before your PSA test, it's important to take certain steps to ensure accurate results, such as avoiding sexual activity and certain medications. The PSA testing process involves a healthcare provider taking a blood sample, which is then sent to a lab for analysis. Interpreting your PSA test results is crucial, and a high PSA level may warrant further testing or treatment. It's important to manage anxiety around PSA testing and to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. Introduction Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers that affects men. It is estimated that over 248,500 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in 2022 alone. The good news is that when prostate cancer is detected early, the chances of successful treatment and survival are significantly higher. This is where the PSA test comes in. The PSA test, or prostate-specific antigen test, is a simple blood test that measures the level of PSA in your blood. The prostate gland produces the protein PSA, and high levels of PSA can be a sign of prostate cancer. However, it's important to note that a high PSA level does not necessarily mean you have prostate cancer. Other factors, such as an enlarged prostate or certain medications, can also cause an increase in PSA levels. Understanding the PSA test and how to prepare for it is crucial for ensuring accurate results and making informed decisions about your health. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of the PSA test, how to prepare for it, the testing process, interpreting your results, managing anxiety, and frequently asked questions about the test. By the end of this blog, you will have a better understanding of how to prepare for your PSA test and what to expect throughout the process. Understanding the PSA Test The PSA test is a key tool in the early detection of prostate cancer. The prostate gland produces a protein known as PSA, or prostate-specific antigen. During a PSA test, a small sample of your blood is taken and analyzed to measure the level of PSA present. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide and the most common cancer among men in the United States. The PSA test is used as a screening tool to detect early signs of prostate cancer. It is important to note that a high PSA level does not definitively indicate the presence of cancer, but it can be a sign that further testing is needed. Regular PSA testing can help identify potential risks and allow for early intervention and treatment, if necessary. What is a PSA Test? A PSA test is a blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. The prostate gland, which is in men just below the bladder, produces the protein known as PSA. The prostate gland produces PSA as part of its normal functioning. During a PSA test, a healthcare provider will collect a small sample of your blood, usually from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The PSA level in your blood can help identify potential issues with the prostate gland, such as prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate. It's important to note that a high PSA level does not automatically mean you have prostate cancer. Other factors, such as an infection or an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia), can also cause elevated PSA levels. Further testing, such as a prostate biopsy or MRI, may be necessary to determine the cause of the elevated PSA level and to make an accurate diagnosis. Importance of Early Detection of Prostate Cancer Early detection of prostate cancer is crucial for successful treatment and improved outcomes. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men in the United States. However, when detected in its early stages, prostate cancer has a high survival rate. Regular screening, including the PSA test, can help identify prostate cancer at an early stage before symptoms develop. Early detection allows for timely intervention and treatment, which can significantly improve the chances of successful outcomes. It can also help prevent the spread of cancer to other parts of the body. While the PSA test is an important tool for early detection, it is not without limitations. It can produce false-positive results, leading to unnecessary anxiety and further testing. It can also miss some cases of prostate cancer, resulting in false-negative results. Therefore, it's important to discuss the benefits and limitations of PSA testing with your healthcare provider and make an informed decision about screening based on your individual risk factors. PSA Test Preparation Proper preparation before your PSA test is essential to ensuring accurate results. While the test itself is straightforward, there are certain steps you can take to help maximize the accuracy of your test results. Before your PSA test, it's important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some medications can affect PSA levels. Your healthcare provider may advise you to temporarily stop taking certain medications before the test. Additionally, it's recommended to avoid sexual activity, ejaculation, and vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours before your PSA test, as these activities can temporarily increase PSA levels. Fasting is not typically required before a PSA test. Steps to Take Before Your Test Before your PSA test, there are several steps you can take to ensure accurate results: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some medications can affect PSA levels. Avoid sexual activity, ejaculation, and vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours before your test, as these activities can temporarily increase PSA levels. It is not typically necessary to fast before a PSA test, but it's always a good idea to follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Be prepared to provide a blood sample during your appointment. The blood sample will be used to measure the level of PSA in your blood. What to Avoid Prior to Your Test To ensure accurate results from your PSA test, it's important to avoid certain factors that can affect PSA levels: Avoid ejaculation and sexual activity for at least 24 hours before your test, as these activities can temporarily increase PSA levels. Refrain from vigorous exercise or activities that put pressure on the prostate gland, such as bicycle riding, as this can also affect PSA levels. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some medications can affect PSA levels. Your healthcare provider may advise you to temporarily stop taking certain medications before the test. It's important to note that certain factors, such as an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia), can also cause elevated PSA levels. Your healthcare provider will take into consideration your individual risk factors and medical history when interpreting your PSA test results. The PSA Testing Process The PSA testing process involves taking a blood sample to measure the level of PSA in your blood. Here's an overview of the steps involved: Blood sample collection: A healthcare provider will collect a small sample of your blood, usually from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. Laboratory analysis: The blood sample is analyzed in the laboratory to measure the level of PSA present. The results of the analysis will be reported as a PSA level in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). The entire PSA testing process typically takes a few business days. Once the results are available, your healthcare provider will discuss them with you and determine any necessary follow-up steps based on the results. On the Day of Your Test On the day of your PSA test, you will visit your healthcare provider's office or a laboratory for a blood test. Here's what you can expect: Blood sample collection: A healthcare provider or phlebotomist will collect a small sample of your blood, usually from a vein in your arm. They will clean the area with an antiseptic and insert a needle to draw the blood. You may feel a slight prick or sting during the process. Test tube collection: The blood sample will be collected in a test tube or vial. The healthcare provider will label the sample with your information and send it to a laboratory for analysis. The blood test itself takes only a few minutes, and the process is generally well-tolerated. After the blood sample is collected, you can resume your normal activities. The results of the PSA test will be available in a few business days, and your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during a follow-up appointment. How the Test is Conducted The PSA test is conducted by taking a blood sample to measure the level of PSA in your blood. Here's a step-by-step guide to how the test is conducted: Blood sample collection: A healthcare professional will clean the area and insert a needle into a vein, usually in your arm, to collect the blood sample. You may feel a slight prick or sting during the process. Test tube collection: The blood sample is collected in a test tube or vial. The healthcare professional will carefully label the sample with your information to ensure accurate identification. Laboratory analysis: The blood sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is analyzed to measure the level of PSA present. The results will be reported as a PSA level in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). The entire process typically takes only a few minutes, and you can resume your normal activities afterward. The results of the PSA test will be available in a few business days, and your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during a follow-up appointment. Interpreting Your Results Interpreting your PSA test results is crucial for understanding your prostate health. The PSA level reported in your test results can provide valuable information. Here's what you need to know: PSA level: The PSA level is reported in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). A higher PSA level may indicate a higher risk of prostate cancer, but it does not confirm the presence of cancer. Test results: Your healthcare provider will interpret your PSA test results in the context of your individual risk factors, medical history, and symptoms, if any. Further testing: Depending on your PSA level and other factors, your healthcare provider may recommend further testing, such as a prostate biopsy, to determine the cause of the elevated PSA level and make an accurate diagnosis. What Does Your PSA Level Mean? The PSA level reported in your test results can provide insights into your prostate health. Here's what different PSA levels may mean: Normal PSA level: A PSA level below 4 ng/mL is generally considered normal. However, it's important to note that prostate cancer can still be present even if the PSA level is within the normal range. Elevated PSA level: A PSA level above 4 ng/mL may indicate an increased risk of prostate cancer. However, other factors, such as an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or prostate inflammation (prostatitis), can also cause an elevated PSA level. PSA velocity: The rate at which your PSA level changes over time, known as PSA velocity, can also provide valuable information. A rapid increase in PSA level may indicate a higher risk of prostate cancer. It's important to discuss your PSA test results with your healthcare provider, who will consider your individual risk factors and medical history when interpreting your results and determining any necessary follow-up steps. Next Steps After Your PSA Test If your PSA test results indicate a high PSA level or other concerning factors, your healthcare provider may recommend further testing or treatment. Here are some possible next steps: Prostate biopsy: If your PSA level is high, your healthcare provider may recommend a prostate biopsy to determine if prostate cancer is present. A prostate biopsy involves collecting small tissue samples from the prostate gland for analysis. Treatment options: If prostate cancer is diagnosed, your healthcare provider will discuss treatment options with you. Treatment can vary depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer but may include surgery, radiation therapy, or other targeted therapies. It's important to remember that an elevated PSA level does not always indicate prostate cancer, and further testing is needed to make an accurate diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will guide you through the next steps based on your individual circumstances. Managing Anxiety Around PSA Testing Undergoing a PSA test can be an anxiety-inducing experience for many individuals. It's normal to feel anxious about the possibility of receiving abnormal results. However, managing anxiety is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. Here are some strategies to help manage anxiety around PSA testing: Educate yourself: Seek reliable health information about the PSA test and prostate health to understand the process and potential outcomes better. Communicate with your healthcare provider: Discuss any concerns or anxieties you may have with your healthcare provider. They can provide reassurance and address any questions or uncertainties. Engage in stress-reducing activities: Practice stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, exercise, or engaging in hobbies and activities you enjoy. Remember that anxiety is a normal response, but it's important not to let it overwhelm you. Stay proactive in managing your mental well-being throughout the PSA testing process. Understanding the Limitations of the PSA Test While the PSA test is a valuable tool for prostate cancer screening, it does have some limitations. It's important to be aware of these limitations to have a realistic understanding of the test's reliability. Here are some limitations of the PSA test: False positive results: The PSA test can sometimes indicate elevated PSA levels even when prostate cancer is not present. This can lead to unnecessary worry and further testing. False negative results: On the other hand, the PSA test can also miss some cases of prostate cancer, resulting in false-negative results. This can provide a false sense of security when cancer is actually present. Other factors: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (an enlarged prostate) and prostate inflammation are two other causes of elevated PSA levels in addition to prostate cancer. These conditions can lead to false-positive results. It's important to discuss the limitations of the PSA test with your healthcare provider and consider additional factors, such as your medical history and risk factors, when interpreting test results and making treatment decisions. Communicating With Your Healthcare Provider Open and honest communication with your healthcare provider is crucial throughout the PSA testing process. Here are some tips for effective communication: Ask questions: Don't hesitate to ask your healthcare provider any questions or express any concerns you may have about the PSA test, the results, or potential treatment options. Your healthcare provider is there to support you and provide you with the information you need. Share your medical history: Be sure to provide your healthcare provider with a complete medical history, including any previous prostate conditions, family history of prostate cancer, or other relevant information. Discuss your preferences: Talk to your healthcare provider about your preferences regarding screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Share your thoughts on the benefits and potential risks of making informed decisions together. Remember that effective communication is a partnership between you and your healthcare provider. By working together, you can ensure the best possible care and outcomes for your prostate health. Conclusion Regular PSA tests are vital for the early detection of prostate cancer. Understanding the process and preparing appropriately can alleviate anxiety around the test. Fasting may not be necessary, but avoiding strenuous exercise before the test is advisable. Communicating openly with your healthcare provider about your results and concerns is crucial for proper management. Stay informed about the limitations of the PSA test and follow up as recommended. Prioritize your health by scheduling regular PSA tests and maintaining a proactive approach to your well-being. Frequently Asked Questions Is Fasting Required as Part of PSA Test Preparation? No, fasting is not typically required before a PSA test. However, it's always a good idea to follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some medications can affect PSA levels. Can Physical Activity Affect My PSA Levels? Yes, physical activity can temporarily increase PSA levels. It's recommended to avoid vigorous exercise or activities that put pressure on the prostate gland for at least 24 hours before your PSA test to ensure accurate results. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. What is the Best Time of Day for a PSA Test? The best time of day for a PSA test may vary depending on the healthcare provider's schedule and the laboratory's operating hours. It's best to consult with your healthcare provider to schedule the test at a time that is convenient for both of you. How Often Should I Get a PSA Test? The frequency of PSA testing depends on various factors, including your age, family history, and overall health. The American Cancer Society recommends discussing the benefits and risks of PSA screening with your healthcare provider to determine an appropriate screening schedule based on your individual risk factors. Can I Resume Normal Activities After a PSA Test? Yes, you can generally resume your normal activities immediately after a PSA test. However, some individuals may experience slight pain or bruising at the site where the blood sample was taken. If you have any concerns, consult with your healthcare provider. How Can I Find PSA Testing Near Me? If you are looking to get PSA testing near you, there are several options available. You can start by visiting DiscountedLabs.com and ordering your own PSA test without a doctor visit, or by contacting your primary care physician or urologist to inquire about PSA testing services. Many healthcare facilities, such as clinics, hospitals, and diagnostic centers, also offer PSA testing.

According to the World Health Organization, nearly 10 million people died worldwide last year because of cancer. Almost 20% of these people lost their lives as a result of smoking cigars and cigarettes, which are known to produce lung cancer. Scientists have discovered more than 100 different types of cancers, but what exactly is this disease, and how it affects the body? Cancer results when various cells begin to mutate or grow abnormally. This cell outgrowth can lead to tumors. A tumor can be benign or malign. Benign tumors don't spread, so the cancerous cells don’t compromise other tissues in the body. Malign tumors spread to other organs if they are not removed quickly. What is The Comprehensive Cancer Panel for Men? The Comprehensive Cancer Panel for Men is a collection of tests a male can get to see if he has various types of cancers in his body. For example, this lab test panel can test for liver, testes, prostate, colon, rectal, pancreatic, or breast cancer in men. A simple blood sample is required to perform all these tests successfully. How Does It Work? It's very easy to take advantage of this collection of cancer lab tests. You can order the Comprehensive Cancer Panel for Men from DiscountedLabs.com. You'll be emailed a form which you should print and go to your nearest clinic to draw blood. Your sample is analyzed by experts and various tests are performed to see if there are cancerous cells in your body. In most cases, the results will be emailed back to you in just a few business days. You can then take the results to your physician and ask for advice and recommendations. Based on your results, further procedures or tests might be required to improve your health. It's safe to assume that a simple cancer test can make the difference between life and death since most types of cancers can be fatal if not caught early. What Are the Substances Tested by the Comprehensive Cancer Panel for Men? As mentioned earlier, the panel includes numerous tests that look at various antigens or substances in the body. When cancer develops, certain hormones are released in abnormal quantities. These are called markers. If a marker for colon cancer is discovered in the body, for example, it means that you are very likely to develop that type of cancer in the future, or the colon cancer is already in advanced stages. Let's take a look at some of the tests included by every Comprehensive Cancer Panel for Men available on the market today. 1. Cancer antigen 15-3 The cancer antigen 15-3 is a protein produced by breast cancer tumors. This protein is measured to determine if a person has breast cancer or if he is responding to treatment. The cancer antigen 15-3 is normally produced in the body, but its levels increase when cancerous cells in the breast tissue develop. It's important to know that other types of cancers such as lung, pancreas or prostate cancer might also cause an increase in cancer antigen 15-3 levels. This protein should be less than 30 U/ml in healthy individuals. 2. Carbohydrate Antigen (CA) 19-9 The Carbohydrate Antigen (CA) 19-9 is a special type of antigen used to detect pancreatic and colon cancers. People who have gastrointestinal problems usually have high levels of Carbohydrate Antigen (CA) 19-9. if the patient has other problems such as pancreatitis or cholestasis, then the levels of this antigen might be slightly elevated as well. 3. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) The prostate-specific antigen is a type of protein which might signal prostate cancer in men. As a general rule of thumb, normal PSA levels are below 4ng/dL of blood. If the PSA levels are above this level, this might mean that the patient is likely to develop or have prostate cancer or prostatitis. The PSA test has been approved by the FDA back in 1986 and it provides a very accurate way to determine whether you have prostate cancer or not. If the PSA levels are elevated, the doctor might ask for a prostate biopsy to see if prostate cancer has already developed. 4. Cancer antigen 27-29 The Cancer antigen 27-29 is also included in the Comprehensive Cancer Panel for Men. This protein is tested to see if the patient has breast cancer (Yes, men can get breast cancer.) This test provides one of the few possibilities to test for breast cancer in adults and that's why it's included in the panel. It's important to note here that the levels of Cancer antigen 27-29 can increase as the breast cancer progresses in a patient. An abnormally high level of Cancer antigen 27-29 in the blood demands an immediate and more complex analysis to determine the cancer stage and how it can be treated. 5. α-Fetoprotein (AFP), Tumor Marker The α-Fetoprotein (AFP), Tumor Marker is a complex protein that might indicate multiple types of cancers in the body. This hormone is made by the liver and abnormally high levels of it might indicate liver, pancreas, stomach or testes cancer. Pregnant women who have high levels of this protein might be predisposed to congenital problems with the baby. Apart from cancers, elevated levels of α-Fetoprotein (AFP), Tumor Marker can also be an indicator of brain tumors, renal cancer or Hodgkin's disease. It's very important to do this test to see if you are predisposed to all of these cancers or not. 6. Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)  The Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) is usually high in people who have lung, colon or rectal cancer. This substance is tested in the beginning to see if the patient is predisposed to these types of cancers. If the levels are elevated and the patient begins treatment, the CBA is also tested regularly to see the progression of the disease and/or the efficiency of the treatment. What Should I Know Before Doing the Test? As mentioned earlier, a simple blood sample is required to test for all these substances in your bloodstream. However, patients are strongly recommended to stop supplementation with biotin for at least 24 hours before doing the test. Biotin is part of the vitamin B complex and it's used by the body to convert the foods you eat into energy for your body to burn. You can take biotin from foods as well as from various supplements. Make sure that you stop supplementation with biotin until you have drawn blood in a clinic. Who Should Do This Test? The Comprehensive Cancer Panel for Men is designed to be used by all men if they or their physicians suspect that they have certain cancer symptoms. You can do this cancer test panel as a preventative measure or if you feel unwell and want to get your health checked. To expand your knowledge a little bit, here are a few common cancer symptoms in men. Common Cancer Symptoms Change in bowel movement - diarrhea which lasts for days, pencil-thin stools or other change in bowel movements which are not directly related to diet is a good indicator that you might need a cancer test. Having blood in the stool is also something worth investigating as soon as possible. Anemia - although anemia (fewer than normal red blood cells in the bloodstream) is not directly associated with cancer, it can be a good indicator that you might need to order the test panel. People with anemia have little to no energy, feel constantly fatigued, and not in the mood for anything. This can indicate a serious health condition including cancer. Lumps in breasts or testes - abnormal lumps in the breast or testicles which feel hard at touch are not normal. This might indicate that tumors are growing in these organs and you need to have your health checked immediately. Men should routinely inspect their breasts or testes on their own and check for abnormal lumps on the skin. Change in urination frequency - people urinate more if they drink more liquids, but very frequent urination is not a good sign in some cases. Also, not having a good urine flow or having blood in the urine might be a sign of cancer. If urinating feels itchy or painful, this can also signify a problem with the bladder or prostate and this needs to be check quickly to see if the cells are getting cancerous. Frequent coughs - it's normal to cough when you're ill, but if the coughs are persistent and you sometimes spit blood when you cough, this is a serious indicator of lung or throat cancer. Doing the test will reveal the truth about your condition, so you can begin treatment earlier and save your life. What to Do Next? Ordering the Comprehensive Cancer Panel for Men is an important investment in your health. Remember that an "ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" and this test can reveal so much about your health. Although it might be scary to do the test at first because you don't know what results you might get, it's always better to know what's wrong with your health earlier than later. DiscountedLabs.com is a reputable website where you can order multiple direct-to-consumer lab tests for an affordable price. You'll find the Comprehensive Cancer Panel for Men there as well as multiple other tests such as complete blood count, hormone panels for men and women, and many other discounted lab tests. Order yours today and take charge of your health!