From the Guidelines
Weight training and running within a couple of days before a PSA test can potentially affect the results, and it is recommended to avoid such vigorous exercise for at least 48 hours before the test. According to the clinical practice guideline on prostate cancer screening with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test published in the BMJ in 2018 1, avoiding vigorous exercise, such as cycling, in the 2 days prior to PSA testing is advised as it may result in false positive elevation. This principle can be applied to other forms of vigorous exercise like weight training and running, which may cause mechanical stimulation of the prostate gland, leading to increased release of PSA into the bloodstream.
Some key points to consider when preparing for a PSA test include:
- Avoiding vigorous exercise, including weight training and running, for 48-72 hours before the test
- Avoiding sexual activity, such as ejaculation, for 2 days prior to PSA testing, as this may also result in false positive elevation 1
- Informing your healthcare provider about any recent strenuous physical activities or procedures that may have affected your PSA levels
- Maintaining your normal routine but avoiding strenuous exercise, sexual activity, and certain medical procedures in the days leading up to your test for the most accurate PSA measurement.
It's essential to follow these guidelines to ensure that your PSA test results accurately reflect your baseline PSA levels, which is crucial for the early detection and management of prostate cancer 1.
From the Research
Effect of Weight Training and Running on PSA Test Results
- There are no research papers provided that directly address the impact of weight training and running on PSA test results.
- The studies provided focus on the comparison of digital rectal examination and serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the early detection of prostate cancer 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- None of the studies mention the effects of physical activities such as weight training and running on PSA test results.
- Therefore, it is not possible to determine the impact of weight training and running within a couple of days of a PSA test on the test results based on the provided evidence.