Ajax Harwood Clinic

PSA prostate test

Full name: PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen), including free PSA and PSA ratio

This test is useful only in specific situations — it's not right for everyone who asks about it.

What this test is

PSA is a blood test used to look for prostate cancer. If you have prostate cancer, or are being treated or watched for it, PSA is a normal part of your care, and OHIP covers it. For men without a diagnosis, screening with PSA is a real choice, not a clear yes or no. It may lower your small chance of dying from prostate cancer. It can also lead to a false alarm, a biopsy you didn't need, or treatment for a slow cancer that would never have harmed you. Canadian urologists suggest talking about it from about age 50, or earlier if you are at higher risk. The Canadian Task Force suggests not screening. Depending on your situation, you may have to pay for a screening test yourself.

Want to see the full clinical reasoning? The reference we use for this test is open to anyone — it is detailed and written for clinicians, and you are welcome to read it.

Open the clinician reference →

Looking for other tests, or more on a condition an ND raised? Explore ask.ajaxharwoodclinic.com →

General health information for Ajax Harwood Clinic patients and the public — not medical advice, and not a substitute for seeing your own doctor. Last reviewed 2026-09-23.