Prostate cancer affects the cells of the prostate gland, a golf-ball-sized gland responsible for making seminal fluid. Testing for this cancer type includes a digital rectal examination and the prostate-specific antigen -- PSA -- blood test. Considered an inexact measurement, the PSA test can indicate higher-than-average levels that may not necessarily mean a man has cancer. Exercise is an example of an activity that is commonly linked with causing higher PSA levels.
PSA Testing
The PSA test is a tool used both for the detection of prostate cancer and for monitoring the effects of treatments. A simple blood test, the PSA test measures the amount of protein the prostate gland cells produce. High levels of PSA in the blood can indicate the presence of cancer. While a physician may use different numbers to indicate a high PSA level, below 4.0 ng/mL is considered normal. In addition to the actual PSA measurement, a physician may examine your PSA tests over time. An abnormal jump in PSA level -- even if the PSA test is in the normal range -- can indicate the presence of cancerous cells. But an elevated PSA test does not automatically indicate prostate cancer, but instead can be due to a number of individual and contributing factors.
Misconception
The idea that all forms of exercise affect a PSA test is a common misconception. Studies conducted on activities that do no place pressure on the prostate, yet amount to vigorous exercise, have not established a link between the PSA results and elevated counts. Activities like swimming, walking, jogging or lifting weights before your exam should not affect your PSA test.
Exercise and Prostate Pressure
Physicians may warn against you engaging in activities such as riding a bicycle, horse or motorcycle, which can put pressure on the prostate and potentially artificially raise your PSA levels. This hypothesis is still being studied and a definitive link has not been made. But your physician may recommend you avoid such activities 24 hours before a PSA test to be on the safe side.
Elevated Causes
Although exercise has not been shown to cause elevated PSA levels, other factors other than cancer can. These include a condition known as benign prostate enlargement, a common condition that occurs as men age that affects urination. Inflammation and infection of the prostate also can lead to elevated PSA. As a person ages, his PSA levels tend to become higher. Race also can be a factor in establishing a baseline level.
