The 2 tests for prostate cancer you should know about

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test

The PSA test is a blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen, a protein made by the prostate. The normal level of PSA changes as you get older. There are several prostate problems that can cause a higher PSA level, including prostate cancer. Sometimes people with prostate cancer have a PSA level that is not higher than normal.

The PSA test cannot diagnose cancer. But it can indicate that there might be a problem with the prostate.

The cost of PSA testing may or may not be covered by your provincial or territorial health system or your insurance. Find out how we’re advocating to expand coverage of the PSA test in Ontario and British Columbia.

Digital rectal exam (DRE)

A digital rectal exam (DRE) is a physical examination of the prostate through the rectum. A healthcare provider inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate for lumps or anything else that seems unusual.

Person looking at test results with their doctor

Both tests are better than one

Using both the PSA test and DRE together is better than using either test alone. PSA testing together with a DRE may help find cancer early when it is easier to treat.

Follow-up tests

If a problem is found, more tests will be done to find out whether you have prostate cancer or another health problem. Further tests can include:

a follow-up PSA test
a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) – a test that uses sound waves to make a picture of the rectum and nearby organs, including the prostate
a biopsy of the prostate – tissue samples of the prostate are looked at under a microscope