Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) — Price Comparison in the UAE
Screens for prostate cancer in men over 50. Elevated levels may indicate prostate cancer, BPH, or prostatitis.
Turnaround
24 hours
Sample
Blood sample (venipuncture)
Common Reasons to Order
Understanding Your PSA Results
What This Test Measures
PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a serine protease enzyme secreted by epithelial cells of the prostate gland. It is measured in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL) in serum. Most PSA in the blood is bound to proteins (bound PSA), with a small fraction circulating freely (free PSA). A PSA above 4.0 ng/mL is conventionally flagged as elevated, though age-specific reference ranges are preferred — younger men warrant investigation at lower thresholds. Elevated PSA is not specific to cancer; benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis are common causes of raised PSA. The free-to-total PSA ratio can help distinguish cancer from benign causes.
Who Should Get This Test
Recommended For
PSA screening remains a shared decision between patient and physician due to the risk of over-detection of indolent cancers. Most guidelines recommend discussing PSA screening with men at average risk from age 50, and from age 40–45 in higher-risk groups: men with a first-degree relative diagnosed with prostate cancer under 65, men of African ancestry (significantly higher risk), and known BRCA2 mutation carriers. PSA is also used to monitor known prostate cancer patients on active surveillance or post-treatment to detect recurrence.
In the UAE Context
Prostate cancer is among the top five cancers diagnosed in UAE men, according to the UAE National Cancer Registry. The UAE's South Asian male expat population — a large demographic — has a lower baseline risk compared to Western populations, but African-origin males (including a proportion of the UAE's African expat community) carry elevated risk. Awareness of PSA screening has grown substantially with UAE government cancer awareness campaigns (such as Movember initiatives). Many UAE corporate health plans now include PSA in annual check-up panels for men over 45. All major UAE diagnostic labs offer both total PSA and free PSA as standalone tests or bundled in men's health packages.
Related Cancer Screening Tests
PSA Test — FAQ
How much does a PSA test cost in the UAE?
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) pricing varies by laboratory. Contact labs directly for current pricing.
Do I need to fast before a PSA test?
No, fasting is not required for a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA). You can have the test at any time of day without dietary restrictions.
How long does it take to get PSA results?
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) results are typically available within 24 hours. Walk-in labs may provide results faster than home collection services. Most labs in the UAE deliver results digitally via email or app within 24 hours.
Why is PSA testing important?
Screens for prostate cancer in men over 50. Elevated levels may indicate prostate cancer, BPH, or prostatitis. Common reasons to order this test include: Prostate cancer screening, Men over 50, Family history, Urinary symptoms. Regular testing helps detect conditions early when they are most treatable.
Disclaimer: Prices for Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) are indicative and based on publicly available data from UAE diagnostic laboratories. Actual prices may vary by branch, insurance coverage, and current promotions. The medical information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified physician to determine if this test is appropriate for your condition and to interpret your results. Last verified March 2026.