Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a protein that the prostate gland produces continuously. Today, its levels are used as an indicator of the condition of the gland and as a tumor marker for diagnosing prostate cancer. Prostate specific antigen levels have been reported to be persistently elevated in prostate cancer. World Prostate Cancer Month offers a convenient opportunity to pay special attention to problems with this male-only gland. Among the most important questions to be clarified is the fact that high levels of prostate specific antigen as a tumor marker are reported not only in prostate cancer. 5 Causes of High Prostate Specific Antigen That Are Not Cancer It is important to note that in most cases, elevated prostate specific antigen is only a temporary condition. Therefore, its one-time detection should in no case be considered a sure marker for prostate cancer. The presence of this leading form of cancer in men can only be suspected if a high PSA marker is repeatedly reported over time. Non-cancerous causes of high prostate-specific antigen include a variety of conditions, some of which do not even signal problems with the gland. Among these reasons stand out 5. Recent ejaculation Examination of the prostate specific antigen in a period of 48 hours after ejaculation always shows increased values. The reason is the increased secretory activity of the prostate, synthesizing the main components of the seminal fluid. Men planning prostate specific antigen testing should avoid sexual activity for at least the previous 2 days. Prostatitis Inflammation of the prostate, referred to as prostatitis, can also lead to high levels of the tumor marker. However, this condition is completely treatable and rarely leads to serious complications with timely therapeutic intervention. Benign prostatic hyperplasia This condition is also referred to simply as an enlarged prostate. It is an inevitable consequence of the hormonal changes in the male organism with advancing age. Barring problems with urination and an increase in prostate-specific antigen levels, it can rarely lead to long-term negative consequences. NEWS_MORE_BOX Presence of uroinfection Although more typical for women, problems such as cystitis and urethritis can also affect men, and their development also leads to a temporary increase in prostate specific antigen. In addition, the symptoms of uroinfection and prostate problems are very similar, which should also be taken into account when making a diagnosis. Excessive physical activity Prostate-specific antigen levels are slightly elevated in men who exercise regularly. An additional increase is reported during periods of excessive physical exertion, but it cannot be considered a sign of prostate disease. At least 50% of men over the age of 50 have prostate problems.Although not always a sign of the most serious disease – prostate cancer – the prostate specific antigen should be examined periodically to ensure timely intervention in case of possible dangerous changes in the gland.