PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland and measured through a blood test. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate enlargement, inflammation, or cancer, though values are not disease-specific and must be interpreted in clinical context. Age, prostate volume, prior procedures, and certain medications all influence PSA results. For life insurance underwriting, PSA levels are important screening data for male applicants, especially over age 40 or 50. Underwriters consider absolute PSA values, velocity over time, and whether biopsies, imaging, or urology evaluations have been completed. Markedly elevated or rapidly rising PSA often requires further workup before coverage can be approved.

In underwriting workflows, abnormal PSA values from exam labs trigger reflex questions about urology visits, biopsies, and any prostate cancer diagnosis or treatment. Carriers may postpone decisions until definitive evaluation is completed, particularly when biopsy results are pending. Advisors preparing cases can help by collecting urology notes and prior PSA histories, which may show long-term stable elevations due to benign prostatic hyperplasia rather than malignancy. For clients, discussing PSA in the life insurance context can also reinforce the importance of regular medical checkups. Understanding PSA helps advisors explain why underwriters are cautious when lab results suggest possible prostate pathology, even before a formal cancer diagnosis is made.