Why a baseline PSA at Age 40 Could Save Your Life
When it comes to prostate cancer, not all men face the same level of risk—and not all should wait until age 50 to begin screening. At Fore River Urology, our High-Risk Prostate Screening Clinic is designed for men who may be genetically predisposed to developing prostate cancer earlier or more aggressively than average.
If you have a family history of prostate, breast, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer—or carry certain inherited gene mutations—you may need to start screening as early as age 40.
The Power of a Baseline PSA at Age 40
For men at increased risk, a baseline PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test at age 40 is one of the most important tools we have. It provides a reference point for future PSA trends and helps identify cancer early—often before symptoms appear.
Establishing a PSA baseline early allows us to tailor your follow-up care and determine how often future screening should be done.
Are You at Higher Risk?
You may benefit from our high-risk screening program if you have:
A Family History of Cancer
- A first-degree relative (father, brother, or son) diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 60
- A history of metastatic or fatal prostate cancer in the family
- A mother, aunt, or sister with:
- Aggressive or early-onset breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
Inherited Gene Mutations
Men with the following genetic mutations are at elevated risk for developing prostate cancer—often at a younger age and with a more aggressive course:
- BRCA1
- BRCA2
- HOXB13
- ATM
- PALB2
- CHEK2
- RAD51D
- ATR
- NBN
- GEN1
- RAD51C
- MRE11A
- BRIP1
- FAM175A
If you’re unsure of your genetic status, we can connect you with trusted genetic counselors and offer coordinated follow-up based on your results.
What You’ll Receive Through Our High-Risk Clinic
- A detailed review of your family history and personal risk factors
- Baseline PSA testing and physical exam
- Personalized screening recommendations, which may include:
- Regular PSA testing
- Digital rectal exam (DRE)
- Advanced imaging (e.g., prostate MRI)
- Possible advanced blood or urine biomarkers
- Genetic testing
- Referrals for genetic testing and counseling, when appropriate
- Ongoing, risk-adapted follow-up
Why This Matters
Prostate cancer caught early is highly treatable. Men with genetic mutations or strong family histories are at greater risk for developing aggressive disease, which can progress silently without early detection. By identifying high-risk men and customizing their care, we improve the chances of early intervention and better outcomes.
Take the First Step — Schedule Your Screening
If prostate cancer runs in your family or you carry a known cancer-related mutation, it’s time to take control of your health. Talk to your primary care provider or request an appointment at our clinic.
Located in South Portland, Maine, our team is here to provide trusted, proactive care.
Learn more and request an appointment at our High-Risk Prostate Screening Clinic ›
