What To Know
- Elevated PSA levels can be a sign of prostate cancer, but they can also be caused by other factors, such as prostatitis or an enlarged prostate.
- A study published in the Journal of Urology found that men who lifted weights had higher PSA levels than men who did not lift weights.
- If you have elevated PSA levels, you should talk to your doctor about whether or not it is safe for you to continue lifting weights.
Can weight lifting raise PSA levels? This question is often asked by men who are concerned about their prostate health. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels can be a sign of prostate cancer, but they can also be caused by other factors, such as prostatitis or an enlarged prostate.
What is the evidence?
There is some evidence that weight lifting can raise PSA levels. A study published in the Journal of Urology found that men who lifted weights had higher PSA levels than men who did not lift weights. The study also found that the more weight a man lifted, the higher his PSA level.
However, it is important to note that this study was small and did not include a control group. Therefore, it is difficult to say for sure whether weight lifting actually causes PSA levels to rise.
Other factors that can affect PSA levels
In addition to weight lifting, there are a number of other factors that can affect PSA levels, including:
- Age: PSA levels tend to increase with age.
- Race: African American men have higher PSA levels than white men.
- Family history: Men with a family history of prostate cancer are more likely to have elevated PSA levels.
- Ejaculation: Ejaculation can temporarily lower PSA levels.
- Medications: Some medications, such as finasteride and dutasteride, can lower PSA levels.
What should you do if your PSA levels are elevated?
If your PSA levels are elevated, it is important to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Your doctor may perform a digital rectal exam (DRE) and/or a prostate biopsy to determine if you have prostate cancer.
Can you still lift weights if you have elevated PSA levels?
If you have elevated PSA levels, you should talk to your doctor about whether or not it is safe for you to continue lifting weights. Your doctor may recommend that you stop lifting weights or that you reduce the amount of weight you lift.
In a nutshell
The evidence on whether or not weight lifting can raise PSA levels is mixed. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I still lift weights if I have prostate cancer?
A: Talk to your doctor about whether or not it is safe for you to continue lifting weights. Your doctor may recommend that you stop lifting weights or that you reduce the amount of weight you lift.
Q: What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
A: The symptoms of prostate cancer can include:
- Difficulty urinating
- Frequent urination
- Painful urination
- Blood in the urine
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pain in the lower back, pelvis, or thighs
Q: What is the treatment for prostate cancer?
A: The treatment for prostate cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and your overall health. Treatment options may include:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
