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The short answer: a PSA test is a simple blood test that measures a protein made by the prostate. A raised result is a signal to look closer — it does not mean you have cancer.
PSA can be raised by an enlarged prostate, infection, recent exercise or ejaculation, as well as by prostate cancer. That is why the result is always read alongside your symptoms, examination and history.
If your PSA is raised, the usual next step is a structured assessment: repeating the test, further blood tests or imaging, and a conversation about whether any further investigation is worthwhile.
If you have a PSA result you are unsure about, you can request a prostate assessment online and upload your result with the request.